Featured Seller: debbiecarlos

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Tell us about yourself.

Hi! My name is Debbie Carlos. I am a photographer based in Chicago, Illinois.

Apart from creating, what do you do?

I am a bit obsessive about food. I spend a lot of time thinking about food, reading about food, making food, photographing food and, of course, eating food. 

Other than that, I really enjoy hikes, bird watching, cute animal watching, road tripping and acquiring leafy house plants.

How do you get your inspiration?

Looking at art and seeing what other people create always inspires me.

What does handmade mean to you?

Buying handmade is important to me because it means so much more than just buying something cool (which it also means!) A handmade object connects you to the someone somewhere, who is hopefully doing what they love. Buying handmade means supporting an artist, supporting a small business, and in so doing, fostering community. I think if everyone bought handmade/local, it would save the world.

Who or what has been most influential in your business development?

Without a doubt, it has got to be my friends and family.

How would you describe your creative process?

Having a camera on me at all times is the most helpful part of the creative process. Sometimes there is nothing to take a picture of, but sometimes there is. I make sure to take a lot of photos, even if I don’t feel very strongly about the shot, because I like to leave room to be surprised later.

Who is your favorite artist, designer or craftsman?

If I really had to narrow it down, I would have to say it is Rinko Kawauchi.

Do you have and love a handmade thing other than your own creations?

Of course! I love my awesome custom backpack my friend Lilian ( http://boyfrengirlfren.etsy.com ) made.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Doing what I’m doing now but hopefully a little richer. Just a little

How is your life changed since you started creating?

I think my life has completely changed. I’m happy, I’m doing what I love and what I’m good at and I’ve met some really great people along the way. Its great feeling like I’ve really come into my own.

What piece of advise you have for other people?

Above anything else, I think the most important thing is to be kind and generous to others.

04/27/2011