Artist Spotlight with Krista

* Just to get things started, please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where did you grow up,  are you married…kids…etc.

I was born and raised in Flagstaff. I am a country girl and have been my whole life! I raised animals for 4-H and FFA, worked on a ranch and rode horses most of my childhood. During my High school years, I worked at Flagstaff Medical Center and upon graduating, I worked for W.L. Gore in the area of medical research. I met one of my best friends in 2004 and he became my husband in 2009. We now have four busy, wonderful boys!

* How did you start your business/art/craft? Please include when and where and proper experiences that led you to this point…

Since I was a young girl, I have always loved crafting and doing anything that had to do with art. From drawing, scrapbooking, sewing, and craft projects, I loved it all!

I started my business, “Simply Country Boutique” in 2015.

Prior to starting this home decor business, I owned and managed a scrapbooking supply store. I learned a ton about running a business, teaching classes, working with customers and learning to keep up with the ever changing trends. Even after closing the shop due to a drastic change in the paper crafting industry, I continued crafting and dabbling in new hobbies. I began woodworking, painting, crafting with leather and flipping furniture. My love for arts and crafting quickly led me to create a business out of it. 

* Did you take any special training or classes to learn about your craft? How did you evolve in your profession of artistry?

I consider myself to be a self taught artist. I have not taken any specialty classes for my art. I began teaching myself to draw with pencil when I was about 10 years old. I attempted my first canvas painting in 2011 by looking at other artist work and teaching myself how to utilize a variety of brushes and techniques. 

* Any special influences, like a family member, friend or even a place? Tell us about it.

My Grandfather lived in Page and was a carpenter. I played in his shop as a little girl, and although I never made anything with him, I loved to be in there. I guess that sparked my interest, because once I was in middle school, I elected to take an introductory woodworking class. It was then that I had learned the basic skills of woodworking, such as how to use a variety of  saws and tools. In class, I made a few small projects and never messed with another saw until 15 years later.

I am so grateful for the numerous opportunities in my life that have lead me to where I am today! I was not afraid to try new things, learn new arts or to keep exploring and growing in my talents. I continue to learn and develop my skills on a daily basis. 

* Do you have any advice you’d like to share with us and/or admiring, artistic minds that may want to get started into their own business, selling their creations and such?

I would share the advice with anyone interested in learning about art or attempting a new craft to give it a try! Push yourself and you may be surprised at what you are able to do. It is not always easy and sometimes may be discouraging , but keep learning and growing. You never know, it may lead you to starting your own business. I love to look back and see how far I have come in my abilities and talents over the past 20 plus years!

* Just for fun, what are your favorite tools that you use when DIY’ing your projects? And can you attach a sample of something you made with one of your favorite tools?

My favorite tool would probably be a fine tip paintbrush because this is what brings my project to life! It allows me to add writing, pictures and finishing details to my work!

Thank you Krista! It was great to get to know you better, what an inspiring person you are!

Krista is beyond talented. She teaches workshops here at the store almost every month, want to learn from the best? Be sure to sign up for one of her amazing classes!