In the world of quilling, opportunities to showcase one’s artistry on a larger platform are both exciting and rewarding. In 2018, I was presented with a unique quilled monogram book deal that would challenge my skills and offer me a chance to share my expertise with beginners. Designing 13 monograms for a tutorial published by Becker & Mayer was a dream come true, even though the timing of the project coincided with a period of personal loss and creative struggle.
A Golden Opportunity
When the offer came to design monograms for a tutorial, I felt a surge of excitement and gratitude. To be selected among countless talented quilling artists was an honor. My assignment was to create designs for letters A-M, keeping in mind the beginner audience. It was a chance to introduce newcomers to the beauty of quilling through simple and accessible techniques.
Navigating Challenges
While I was thrilled about the opportunity, life had other plans. Just a few weeks before starting the project, I experienced a heartbreaking loss—the sudden and tragic passing of my beloved canine companion, my heart dog. Grief engulfed me, and the creative joy I usually felt seemed distant. Balancing the emotional turmoil with the demand of the project proved to be a daunting task.
Creating Amidst Grief
As I embarked on the project, the weight of my emotions was palpable. Each monogram design was a challenge to create amidst the pain of loss. Struggling with grief, I found it difficult to pour the usual enthusiasm into my creations. However, I was determined to honor the commitment and deliver designs that beginners could enjoy and learn from.
The Book’s Arrival
When the tutorial book was published in two formats—a kit and a hardcover book—I felt a mixture of pride and vulnerability. Holding in my hands the embodiment of my efforts was both fulfilling and poignant. The project’s completion marked a journey of resilience, where I managed to navigate personal loss and deliver on my artistic commitment.
Life After the Project
Completing the monogram designs was a significant achievement, but the toll it took on my emotional well-being was undeniable. In the aftermath, I found myself struggling to reconnect with the creative spirit that once fueled my artistry. It wasn’t until 2020, after a hiatus and a rebranding as Quantum Artistic, that I once again picked up the quilling tool.
Rekindling the Joy
The relaunch of Quantum Artistic marked a turning point in my artistic journey. I rediscovered the joy and passion that quilling brought to my life. With a renewed sense of purpose and creativity, I approached my art with a fresh perspective, embracing the growth and evolution that had occurred during the hiatus.
Conclusion
The monogram book deal with Becker & Mayer remains a pivotal chapter in my quilling journey. It taught me that even amidst adversity, art has the power to heal and uplift. The completion of the project was a testament to my determination and love for the craft, even in the face of personal challenges.
While the timing of the project was bittersweet, the experience highlighted the resilience of the artistic spirit. Today, I cherish the lessons learned during that period, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my expertise with beginners and fellow enthusiasts alike. As my creative journey continues, I carry with me the knowledge that art has the capacity to transform even the most challenging of circumstances into expressions of beauty and resilience.
