Blog Interview #6 ~ Brenda Wampler, Memories & Treasures

Today we have Brenda from the blog Memories and Treasures with us. Thank you for joining us and agreeing to this interview. Let's start by asking you to tell us a little about yourself in a way of an introduction.
I am married to my soul-mate and we have been together for 18 years now. I have one daughter, Elizabeth who will be 21 in March. Incidentally, she was born on her due date. Does that tell you what kind of person I am? If it's on the list, it's gonna get done that day! [laughs]

How about art? What kind of art do you like to do?
As far as art is concerned, I have finally reached the time in my life that I am able to create on a daily basis, though sometimes chores and life get in the way. I am in several groups and participate in many swaps, as I am known to be a jewellery hound! I sew, solder, paint, collage, felt, crochet, alter; you name it, I've either done it or am trying to figure out how to do it! I [also] adore teaching classes. This year I really want to start dabbling in photography, and finding what I really, really want to do! [laughs] I do love all that I currently create, but I am still looking for that art form that just makes my heart skip a beat.

An art form that makes your heart skip a beat. I like that. Now let's move on and talk specifically about your blogging experience. First, when did you begin your blog, and why did you decide to blog?
I drug my feet for a very long time. Just wasn't sure how personal, and how arty I wanted to be. I finally just bit the bullet and started April 27, 2008. It has come along quite well. I do enjoy it, though at times I am just buried. I look at it as my form of a journal, though I do try to keep most of the personal out of it, but not all.

You named your blog Memories and Treasures. Where does the name come from?
I started my little business many, many years ago and selected that name because I adore using pictures in my work, and using those old treasures and memories to create new art. I firmly believe in creating with our hands, and all those creations should become a treasure.

So you say you like to use pictures in your work. Do you use them more in blogging, or do you use more words, or is it a combination?
I love using both. Especially the pictures, I think no story is complete without the pictures. I try to keep my words a bit short because I could really talk!

Tell us about meeting people through your blog.
I have met some simply amazing friends through blogging. It is a wonderful way to connect with like minds. I live in a small town, so it has really helped open the world up to me. One of the ladies I have met is Deb Taylor of Deb Did It. She is an amazing spirit. She live a little over an hour away, and I have had the pleasure of meeting her and spending some art play days with her. Because of her, I am trying to become a freer spirit myself. When I'm with her, I can't shut up! I just share everything when I talk to her. There is such a comfort level there.

What does your "About Me" read on Memories and Treasures?
"Self taught artist and teacher of many mediums. Lover of Life. Treading Lightly."

Have you ever been featured in Artful Blogging?
I so wish! But no, no one has elected me. But I have had the pleasure of being in many other publications. That has been absolutely wonderful.

Is there anything you would like to change on your blog and what directions would you like to take your blog in the future?
I want to create a new header/picture, but just have not taken the time. I want it to show more of my work, and what I am about. But, I spend too much time on the computer already, so I just haven't done it yet. I also need to add more blogs that I love to my links, but that also takes so much time. The future? I really want to get more into photography and digital alterations. I have been wanting to do that for many years, and some of the pictures I am seeing on other blogs makes me want to grab the camera and head out the door. I really want to be more "me" and what I love in the future. Of course that is more about my work, but I see my blog as a journal of my work. I do want to share more techniques, and how-tos. I just love to be able to teach others.

What words would best describe your blog?
That's a hard question. It really is hard to talk about myself. I would hope my blog makes others feel warm and welcome. And inspired! That is the most important thing.

What's your blog counter at at this moment?
I don't have a counter, thought about it, but decided not to. I do use the map tool, love to see where people are that are visiting me.

Do you sell your artwork through your blog?
No, I sell my work at shows, shops and in my Etsy shop. Though I do have a comment on my blog, that I am happy to recreate anything for anyone, just have to ask. I love to share.

Thank you for your time today, Brenda ~ any final thoughts?
As far as blogging, just do it! It is truly very simple, and I love the people that I have met through the blogging world. I have made some amazing friends. Ones that encourage and support my work. Plus each and every comment that I receive is like a little present wrapped in beautiful words. It places people from all over the world right at your door step. You just never know who you will meet, or what opportunity will present itself to you.
As far as creating, you must. You will be amazed at the peace that it gives you. It truly does help you find out who you are and it helps you get in touch to the real you lost in the daily grind of working and living.
Lastly, I want to thank you Dawn for this wonderful opportunity and interview. This is my first, and it has been amazing, so a big THANK YOU!

Visit Brenda at www.memoriesandtreasures.blogspot.com

Photos courtesy of Brenda Seaholm-Wampler, Memories & Treasures