This week we are in Indonesia
Name: Amalia K
Age: 38
Occupation: Artist and illustrator
Etsy Shop: www.TheWishForest.etsy.com
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m an Indonesian born artist, focusing mainly on fine art and illustration. I live in the highlands of West Java with my husband and three children. Art is a huge passion of mine and I’m lucky to be able to spend many hours in a day doing what I truly love.
When did you start creating and how long have you been on Etsy?
I’ve been creating all my life, ever since I learned how to draw as a little girl. I started working in the creative field after I graduated from the university, mainly as an illustrator. A few years ago, I started my personal blog and joined Etsy to make my work available to the rest of the world in 2011.
How did you come up with your business name, is there any special meaning behind it?
When I was little, I used to imagine a special place where I could be whatever I wanted and go into all sorts of adventures with my creature friends. That place was a forest that could grant me any wish, so I decided to name my shop “The Wish Forest”.
Has your Etsy shop become your full time job? If not, would you like it to be?
I work independently as an illustrator, doing many types of projects that involve various fields. Recently, I have been creating more and more personal work and I sell them in my Etsy shop. I think the shop also acts as a gallery and I’m happy with the response I’ve been getting so far.
How would you describe your creative process?
I must admit that I’m one of those artists who can’t keep a sketchbook. I start most of my work when trigerred by a significant emotional feeling that inspires me. I don’t do sketches first, but plunge myself right in, stopping only for little breaks or when I’m totally satisfied with the piece.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Human emotions fascinate me. I find it impossible not to wonder about them, and I like to show this in my work. Many times I get inspirations from my own childhood memories and past experiences. Sometimes a simple conversation does the trick, sometimes it's the tragedies I see in the world every day.
Do you also sell your work at craft shows?
I don’t sell my work at craft shows. Mostly working with clients on particular projects, custom orders and on Etsy. I’m at the moment working towards exhibiting my work in a solo show.
Apart from creating things, what do you like to do?
I love my coffee time, having my nose stuck in a book, spending time with my family, cooking and sampling good food with good company.
Was there ever any other job you dreamed of having growing up?
No. I’m very, very fortunate to have a job that I’ve always wanted for as long as I can remember.
Five years from now you will be…
Hopefully still doing what I love best, creating art and sharing it with the world.
Describe yourself in five words:
Passionate, creative, sensitive, intuitive and hard working.
Carrying on with the five theme, if I were to turn on your iPod, what five artists/songs would I see on your recently played list?
The Civil Wars, Priscilla Ahn, Katy Perry, Coldplay, Sigur Rós.
Lastly, do you have any advice for anyone thinking about opening their own shop or participating in craft shows?
Be brave and embrace your passions fully. Always remember that the more you give, the more you’ll receive in return. There's no doubt that in order to move forward, you'll need a strong support system from family, friends, and the wonderful people you've met online.
Amalia has also graciously offered a 20$ gift voucher for one of you lucky readers! I am really jelous on this one, it means you can get a free print of your choice, or put the 20$ toward one of her pillows, curtains or originals. Amazing work and lots to choose from! Good luck!!
