Interview with RightbrainArt

Tell me a little about yourself.

I was a full-time employee working in a private sector entity in an IT role. Eight years ago, I suffered a brain injury that changed my world forever. Following various therapies and surgery, “art” became the “go-to” zone in which I re-discovered, re-invented and re-defined myself and my purpose, all the while lovingly supported by my family.

How did you begin cardmaking and develop your craft?

Following other forays in art therapy, one day I watched a video on cardmaking and fell in love with the art form and decided to give it a go. Three and one-half years and many YouTube videos later, I continue to explore and experiment with different stamps, paper, coloring medium, have developed a nice following on Instagram and my work has been featured on different companies’ design teams.

What is RightBrainArt all about?

As a result of my brain injury, the left side of my brain was no longer capable of performing “executive” functions as it had in the past. However, I discovered that my previous creative capacity was now “on fire.”  I began an art journey as described below, and when I evolved into cardmaking, RightbrainArt was born.

Tell me about your journey with art therapy. How has it impacted you and is there anything you’d like to share with others about it?

I started my art therapy journey painting shapes. I tried sculpting followed by art journaling. I found my passion with cardmaking. It has become my meditation, sanctuary, and happy place. I block out the world when I create. Cardmaking also gave me a purpose.

Where do you get your inspiration for each card that you make?

I create from my heart and soul. It is a very organic process. I rarely plan what I am going to do. I let the creative process unfold naturally.

What has been your most rewarding experience throughout this process?

The social connections I have made are the most rewarding part of the process. It became very isolating and lonely when I was no longer able to perform my “traditional” work. I lost my daily social connection to people. Through cardmaking I have met the most amazing people and have become part of a world-wide community of inspiring and creative people.

What are your go-to craft essentials?

Cardstock, adhesive – liquid and double sided tape, watercolour paints, alcohol markers, black ink, stamps, paper trimmer.

Any advice for someone interested in learning how to design cards?

Watch YouTube videos and visit stamp company websites to learn about types of stamps and inks, and determine the types of designs that interest you e.g., floral, critters, people images, etc. Begin with one type of coloring medium e.g., marker or coloring pencil, or watercolor paint and select the appropriate paper for the coloring medium. See what you like best and then build your skills accordingly. Create for yourself, try different techniques, and mostly, have fun.

With all of the different options available to express one’s creativity, why do you choose to work with paper?

I thought it was the perfect vehicle to express myself artistically. I can use different techniques and mediums.

What other projects/endeavors are you working on?

I am always excited when I am invited to become a member of a Design Team and particularly enjoy creating cards for different themes aside from Christmas, Thanksgiving, and other holidays. I am exploring getting involved with mixed media projects for cardmaking. You can find my work on Instagram @rightbrainart.

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