INCrowd Interview, 9/20/08 - Marianne Able aka alteredartist

Marianne is all about the paper. She's a relative newbie to the INCrowd, and I thought it was high time that she get the word out on our blog. So, even though this blog is virtual and NOT on paper, here is Her Exquisiteness, alteredartist:

Where were you born & raised?
I was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN.

Where are you now & what led you there?
I know a good thing when I see it! I still live in Indianapolis, IN.

What types of creations do you sell in your Etsy shop(s)?
I love all kinds of paper crafting, but for purposes of my Etsy shop, I create paper art dolls and altered boxes. There is a somewhat limited need for these items, but making them serves my creative needs.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I have a degree in Literature which has absolutely no relation to my work!

How'd you get started creating?
My mother was very creative and taught me to enjoy making things myself. I used to make all my own clothes, and although I don’t sew very much any more, I find that making the art dolls is satisfying in the same sort of way. I envision a doll and her outfit and create both.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
I love beautiful paper the same way I used to love beautiful cloth. The patterns on the paper inspire me and give me many of my ideas.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
I am proud to belong to 2 great Etsy teams: INCrowd and EtsyFOLK. I feel privileged to be counted among the artists that are members of these groups.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
I love the ease with which you can create a shop and make your wares available to interested parties. I have always wanted to be able to show my work to others and this is the perfect medium to do so. I recently sold a doll to a lovely customer in Brisbane, Australia! This would never have happened without Etsy.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
So many from which to choose! I LOVE the following shops:

thompsondesigns
budanart
jellybeans
mincingmockingbird
sugarsusan

Show us pictures of your three favorite items from your own shop.

Fabulous Flapper Art Paper Doll

Sun Worshipper Art Paper Doll

Can You Measure Your Friendship Altered Treasure Box