Meet artist Katie Holland our Feature Sponsor for April!

You may already know a bit about our feature sponsor if you've clicked and visited her button on our side bar. But in case you haven't then this is a great introduction for you! And if you're already familiar with her work, now's your chance to dig a little deeper and see what a talented, dedicated, down to earth, and unique artist she is. We're so thrilled to share this little Q & A with you all today! Grab a cup of coffee, (maybe iced) or maybe a cup of tea (that you'll make too hot, let cool, and then have to heat up again. ha! isn't that so so true?!), and get to know a little more about Katie Holland.

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1. What is your name and/or business and blog name?

I'm Katie Holland and my business is called simply "Katie Holland Art"

2. What do you do? ...and when did you start?

I've been back and forth with making crafty items and doing fine art, but recently I've been mostly focusing on the art side of things. 

I've been making ever since I was a kid and seriously got in to painting about 2002 when I was in college. I've kept on ever since, 

I really can't imagine art not being a part of my life! 

3. What/Who are you inspired by?

Generally I am really inspired my vintage items such as etiquette books from the 50's and 60's. I collect them and they have been a huge source 

of inspiration for my work. 

As far as artists who inspire me, I would have to say Tracey Emin is at the top of that list. Her work is so bold, I really admire her. 

There are so many other people, too many to list! I truly enjoy following my favorite artists on social media and seeing what they are up to. 

A (very) short list would be Ashley Goldberg, Tuesday Bassen, Lisa Congdon, and Michelle Armas. And of course Aaron and Jenny here :)

4. Where do you create? home studio? kitchen table? sofa?

We have a small second bedroom in our apartment that is office/studio space. It's a bit cramped, but I make it work! I am hoping for a bigger space one day of course, but it's a lot better than working in my kitchen, which I have done before.

5. What are some of your fave movies/shows/bands/music?

I'm starting to realize that I have a bit of a TV problem, haha. Recently I've been watching Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, West Wing, Trailer Park Boys, House of Cards, and House Hunters. 

For music it depends what mood I'm in, but I listen to most genres and tend to listen to punk the most. I love listening to comedy podcasts too! 

6. Do you collect anything?

It's probably for the best we have a small space and it limits what I can collect! For now I collect buttons and vintage postcards. I don't really have anything on display at the moment, it's mostly just for my enjoyment. 

7. Favorite art/craft supplies?

I have really been into a more fluid acrylic paint lately as opposed to a heavy body one. For crafting I love washi tape, it's so fun.  

8. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I hope to make more of a name for myself in the art community. I would like to be a homeowner by then as well and be able to make a cozy home filled with art (our walls now are full!).

9. Three favorite websites/blogs/shops...etc?

Curbed Chicago (I love looking at architecture and interior design)

Pinterest

Tumblr- I love following such a variety of blogs (comedy, architecture, art, etc)

10. anything else you'd like to add :)

Thank you for having me! It's so nice to share my work and what makes me happy. I've been following your blog for years and am SO glad I found it way back in the day :)

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Katie's great! We love her style and we're so happy we could share this little profile with you guys. 

If you'd like to see and know more make sure to visit her blog and her website.

And if the urge to shop strikes you, visit her Etsy shop where Everyday is a Holiday readers can use code: HOLIDAYANDKATIE 

for free shipping on anything in her Etsy shop (US only).

Thanks again for reading! Happy Sunday! 

xo Jenny & Aaron

Meet our Feature Sponsor: Pei Li the Miniature Patisserie Chef

One of our very favorite things to do is to share. Share art, art techniques, vintage finds, recipes, favorite blogs... And what's most rewarding is to share the work of our talented friends. Every once in a while we come across an artist who's work is right up our alley. And currently, that credit goes to miniature artist Pei Li! Her work hits me on several levels. First, the sheer cuteness of her miniatures absolutely tickles my heart. Her choice in subject matter is exactly what the doctor ordered...I love the itty bitty macarons, and the diminutive cakes and cupcakes with their icing and frosting that looks tastier than the real thing. The next thing that grabs me is her color palette...so soft, dreamy, and enchanting. And then, what completes my love for her work is the admiration I have for her technical mastery. As a lifelong professional artist I have firsthand knowledge of the effort that this type of work requires. (though my work isn't even a fraction as demanding) In looking at Pei Li's art, and seeing the attention to perfect detail, the pieces come alive...they are physical embodiments of her passion and dedication.
We are honored to have Pei Li as our Featured Sponsor this month. It's a thrill to be able to share all these adorable pics of her work. And she was sweet enough to take the time for a little Q & A so that we can all get to know her a little better. Enjoy! 

What is your name and/or business and blog name?

    Hi, my name is Pei Li and my business name is Pei Li Miniatures. I'm also known as the Miniature Patisserie Chef.

What do you do? ...and when did you start?

     I started making 1:12 scale dollhouse miniatures after taking a class teaching paper clay in 2005. I never looked back since and have been making miniatures. I opened my Etsy shop in 2008 and after a few years, I also started to turn some of my creations into cute jewelry items. After another few years, I had my own website where I slowly started to sell some supplies and teach individual workshops locally in Singapore. 

What/Who are you inspired by?

   I get a lot of inspiration in real life....such as shops that I visited, or photos and pictures that I see on Pinterest, or in magazines. I love the zakka style, as well as the shabby chic, feminine style. A lot of the creations that I create are a reflection of the things that I love in real life: desserts, pastries, home decor, flowers etc.

Where do you create? home studio? kitchen table? sofa?

   I currently live with my family in Singapore. All my crafting is done in my own bedroom. I have a long work desk, and I usually craft while listening to music or videos! I really do listen to videos more than watching them as I need to pay attention while I'm crafting. When I conduct classes, depending on situation, I will do that in my kitchen or dining room. 

What are some of your fave movies/shows/bands/music?

   I listen to a variety of music, and what I like listening to largely depends on my mood. Sometimes I like classical music, or flute pieces combined with nature sounds. I find that really relaxing! On most days, my music playlist is comprised of songs by Samantha James, Sade, Blue Six and Urban Humming Stereo.

 Do you collect anything?

  When I was a kid, I used to collect stamps, post cards, stickers and letter pads. I outgrew that, and then before I started making miniatures,  I collected cross stitch magazines, charts and books. As for miniatures, I am more selective and do keep a few items that hold a special place in my heart. 

 Favorite art/craft supplies?

  My favourite craft supply would have to be air dry clay, which is what I use mostly in my work. I'm also a fanatic of paints, from acrylic paints, to oil paints to watercolours. I have quite a large collection when it comes to paints as it is also one of the important supplies that helps to transform my work. I experiment with different kinds of paint and am always excited to try different things.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

  I don't really have a long road map. All I know is that in 5 years time, it will be a blessing to be enjoying what I'm still doing, continuing my creative journey, being happy, contented and healthy! 

Three favorite websites/blogs/shops...etc?

  Pinterest is definitely one of my favourite websites, I get so happy and inspired when I see beautiful things! 

Another one of my favourite websites will be Zita Elze. From her website, you can find other resources to view her fantastic flower work. My work has no resemblance to her style, but it is her dedication to artistry that inspires me to strive for the same in my course of work.

Is there anything else you'd like to add? 

  Being able to share my love for dollhouse miniatures on the internet has been one wonderful journey. Having people telling me they smiled when they see my creations brings an unexplainable sense of happiness. And oh, I don't have a dollhouse, if you ask me (due to tight space constraints), but it doesn't stop me from making these mini accessories! 

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Isn't she great?! We'd love for you to pop over to Pei Li's blog and say hi! And it would be extra sweet if you let her know that Jenny & Aaron sent you. Thanks so much again. We hope you love what you see!
xo, Jenny & Aaron