Mom behind the Shop: Spirit Essence Art

This week's Mom Behind the Shop is Spirit Essence Art , aka Arlene. Arlene is sponsering a giveaway of her Green Glass pendent here.

Here we asked Arlene some questions to get to know her:

What kinds of items do you sell: Fused Glass Jewelry and Art Creations, as well as oil paintings

Who are you ??? I am happily married, have a married son, wonderful daughter-in-law, and 3 beautiful grand-daughers. I have had several careers before I decided to become a full-time artist, though when I started out, I was doing stained glass as a hobby. Now I am teaching stained glass, creating fused glass (that is formed in a kiln), and more lately oil painting and watercolor painting.

What made you get into your craft: I started by taking a stained glass class in a hobby shop for fun. I loved it so much I have been creating with glass for over 25 years now in one form or another. I started painting and drawing after I took a drawing class and then painting class so that my stained glass designs would be better. I just love working with color and that has kept my interest for so many years.

Tips for online businesses: I am not an expert, but I do know that it is helpful to be persistent, consistent, and to keep doing all you can do to perfect your craft, and to let people know what you have to offer. It is important also, in my opinion, to stay positive and keep believing that you can have all you want to have. Just love what you do and be enthusiastic. That will take you far.

Tips for moms : I know it is not always easy to pursue your art while you have young children at home. However, I feel it is important not to feel guilty for taking the time to do something for yourself, when it is appropriate. Your children will learn self-respect from you because of this. Of course, your loved ones come first, but don't leave yourself out either!

What is your favorite place to visit: Right now, it is to see my grand-daughters! I love being around them - they are so natural and you always know where you stand with them. My husband and I moved here to Pittsburgh to be close to them, and I am enjoying this opportunity so much. I never want to take that for granted.

Your comfort food: Only one? Well, I have a few: Chocolate is very high on the list! Also, I love home-made soups and a good loaf of bread. Then, of course, after having lived in the Southwest for 10 years, a bowl of hot, spicy chili is very delicious and satisfying.

If you were able to do anything in the world , what would it be and why: Travel! I love seeing different cities, different countries. I had the opportunity to live in New Zealand for 10 years and it was wonderful. There are so many interesting places in the world to visit, that I would travel a lot more than I am able to right now.

Click on the photos to see some items from my shop:

Arizona Agave Oil Painting

Red Starfish Dichrotic Glass Pendent

Fused Glass Sculpture