INCrowd Interview, 9/6/08 - Samma Parcels, aka samandsha

OK, I have to admit it: in a world full of art-lust, I Jones for this chick's work more than almost any other's. It is so richly layered, sculptural and original that every new piece she makes blows me away all the more. Meet Samma.

Where were you born & raised?
Pittsboro, IN.

Where are you now & what led you there?
Pittsboro, IN, 3rd generation in the same house.

What types of creations do you sell in for your Etsy shop(s)?
Boro and Soft glass vessels, beads and jewelry.

What's your educational background, as it relates to your work?
I have a degree in Fashion Design but have studied with world-famous and local artists along the way.

How'd you get started creating?
No kidding...I wrote a paper in second grade that said I was going to grow up to be either an artist or astronaut and my Momma said "Well, I guess you'll have to be an artist, because you aren't allowed to go to the moon, it's too far away from home"...so I started practicing. That's when I knew.

What's your muse, or what turns that little creative light inside you on?
I am inspired by every darned thing I see, but especially by the ocean, water, shells, natural things mostly.

Do you belong to any Street Teams? If so, which ones and why?
I belong to the INCrowd...because we rock! Also the CGGE that is focused entirely on glass works.

What's your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?
I love the people, sellers and buyers. I love that it focuses on HANDMADE, not garage sale items. I love their listing terms and simple rules. Etsy is da' bomb.

Recommend your five favorite shops on Etsy.
robdrexel
slcuniques
maiaart
helensharvest
izamalczyk

Show us three of your own favorite creations.

POSH-Glass Lampwork - Blown Boro Shell Vessel

POSH-Glass Lampowork Beads Boro Hollow Swirls

POSH-Glass Lampwork Blown Boro Vessel - The Angler

Anything else to add? Go for it!
I just returned from the largest glass conference held annually. This year, "The Gathering", was held in Oakland, California. It was four days of the latest and greatest new equipment and supplies on the market. There were many of the legends of glass that presented demos each day. I got to meet, greet and talk to the best of the best and I must say, they were all so awesomely talented and genuinely nice folks. It was a trip of a life time for me.

Well, if they awed you, I'm sure I'd just drop unconscious in their presence. YOU are the best of the best, and the INCrowd is proud to have you! Thanks, Samma.

Carolynn aka nilochlainn