A Folk Reveries Interview with Moonhare!

This month's Folk Reveries interview is with Karen Davis of Moonhare. She was one of the first artists I asked to be a part of FR when it first began. Her art is filled with fairytales and dreams and I would like you all to meet her ;)

Name: Karen Davis

Shop name: Moonlight and Hares

Country: UK

What do you make/sell: I am an Artist and Illustrator. I sell prints and originals of my paintings and wooden hand painted decorative hangers. 

Website: http://www.karendavis.me.uk/
Blog: http://www.moonlightandhares.blogspot.com/

How long have you been an artist/crafter?


I have been an Artist/Illustrator on and off, since leaving Art College 20 years ago. In the past I've worked on Children's picture books, designed greeting cards and had magazine work.

What is the meaning behind your shop name?


My shop name reflects two things that I love and am inspired by. The pale silvery beauty of Moonlight, probably my most favourite light of all. And Hares, which I have always felt drawn towards. I'm interested in the folklore surrounding the animal and am particularly drawn to white hares. 

How would you describe your work?


I find it quite hard to describe my work, but, 'Capturing essence of magic' springs to mind.

Name five specific things that inspire your art?


Nature
Light
Words stories /poetry
Music
Strange or odd things (sometimes)


What physical places do you like to be for inspiration or to create?


For inspiration I like to be outdoors. Listening to birdsong,star gazing, walking among trees. I also love to visit places with unusual old buildings and gardens. I always take lots of photographs for ideas. To create, I have to be at my desk surrounded by my things.

What encourages and inspires you when you need a creative lift?


When I need a creative lift, I look at other Artists work,look at books/magazines visit somewhere where I haven't been before. Write down words and go back through old sketchbooks to remind myself what I am trying to achieve. 

What are the things that you like most about being on Etsy?


Easy to use
Being in an enviroment of like minded people.
The variety of different work on there.
I love the treasuries too although I still haven't been quick enough to bag one myself yet!

Do you have any future aspirations for your work and your shop?


To continue with my Etsy shop and supply a greater amount of work including more original work and cards. I also hope to get back into Children's picture books or book covers again.

What do you think about trades/swaps?


I like the idea of trades and swaps but as someone that is trying to make pennies to pay the bills I'm afraid I have had to say no to them. There are just too many lovely things out there to swap with and I would never earn any money. ;) 

What interested you about the Folk Reveries group and what do you like most about it?


When Andrea invited me to be a member of the Folk Reveries group I felt truly honoured.
It is filled with many talented artists. I liked the idea of a group who although are all very different have that connection with each other and get inspired by similar things.