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ArtFire Featured Artisan: Maria Penate, LeelaBijou
Posted by sara on 2009-11-04 9:24:43

Art has always been a very important part of my life. I studied solfeggio and I used to play piano and sing. I love the art of photography and painting. I´m an avid book reader and I deeply love a good movie, it´s amazing when a good story can transmit so many feelings.

If there’s one thing that defines you, what is it?
I´m very constant and I always try to fulfill my goals, doing my best, even in the hardest times. Good things don´t happen easily, so it´s necessary to be patient too.

What role does your family play in your art?
A very important one; without their supportive words and caring gests, I couldn´t have made all these items. I feel really lucky for all the wonderful things, moments and experiences they have brought to my life.

Where do you live and what is it like?
I live in the Canary Islands, Spain. My home is situated in the main city of Gran Canaria. It´s not only a beautiful environment with very good weather, it´s also a very special place full of very kind people.

Where did you learn to craft?
As many artisans, at first I was a self-taught person, but when I reached some limits, I attended different courses that helped me to grow and encouraged me to go further. I´m always trying new techniques and improving different the aspects of my work as best I can.

If there is a new craft you could learn, what would it be and why?
There are so many! I would love to learn knitting and sewing, and how to make beautiful bags and purses. I´ve seen a lot of great artisan whose creations made me literally drool.

Where do you receive your inspiration, in general?
Many places. I usually choose a topic, for example, animals or nature elements. I draw the ideas that are born from these inspirations and then I start to work on them.

How did you come to selling crafts?
My friends and family encouraged me. They trusted in me and told me "I had a talent", so I thought that in case it was true, I wanted to share it with everyone.

What is the best piece of advice you can give other artists?
Be yourself and dare to create what comes from your heart. What you do with your soul always remains on people´s mind.

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Posted by: JewelrybyNaLa 2009-11-05 10:23:02
 
Been seeing you around lots of places, but I enjoyed learning more about you here, Maria. Nancy http:jewelrybyNaLa.etsy.com
 
Posted by: Whskr 2009-11-04 12:40:35
 
So nice to learn more about sellers I admire! Thank you for this interview!
 
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