Interview with a Talented Artist ~ sixsisters

This is the fourth in my interview series with talented Etsy and other independent artists. Recently I had the privilege of interviewing Joan (Six Sisters ) Her artwork is spectacular. If you are looking for something unique with a bit of whimsy and magic, take a look at Six Sisters' shop!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in Philly. I attended the Univ of the Arts and got my BFA in Art Education. I marrieda few years later and moved out west. I started raising a family and art took a backseat. I moved back east after a divorce and I love being back in the city.

2. Tell us about your current work and anything else you have in the works.

I do a lot of watercolor and drawing. At present my shop has many fantasy centered works. I am startingto get into polymer clay. I want to make some fantasy pieces in a new medium. I sell at a shop in Philly called VIX Emporium.

3. What prompted you to open an Etsy shop?


I saw an article in the local paper about a artist who was selling at Etsy. So that day I decided I wanted to try it. I had tried another online shop but wasn't happy with the experience. This fit perfectly.

4. How long have you had your Etsy shop?

It will be a year on July 28th. It is hard to believe.

5. Tell us about your Etsy shop. What is the name of your shop and what do you offer there?

The name of my shop is Sixsisters. I am one of six girls so the name seemed to fit. It is easy to say and remember. I sell paintings, collages, cards, aceo's and drawings. I hope to have more candles and some items to support breast cancer awareness. My niece died of breast cancer at the age of 26. So I want to be able to raise some money for that.

6. Do you have a favorite medium? If so, what and why?


My favorite is pen and ink. I love the way the ink flows onto the paper It is so immediate. No erasures there! I do have some skill that I have developed in that area. I guess that is why I enjoy it so much.

7. Was there a Major influence in your life?

I loved the work of Kathe Kollwitz. She brought so much emotion to her prints. They were very political because of the times but they are so relevant for today too. Themes of women and children and war.

Learn more about Kathe Kollwitz.

8. What inspires you?

I get inspiration from music and reading. Everyday life and the people around me. I am an observer and like to watch people's gestures and the way they stand or move their arms.

9. What are your favorite materials?


Paper and pencil. Everything I do begins with drawing. I would be lost if I could not draw. I have learned so much from that.

10. Are there any materials you consider a MUST-HAVE for your art?


Good paper is a must have. It has to be of good quality or I don't think the work looks good.

11. How do you promote your goods?


This is one area I really need to improve on. I am afraid I am at a loss as to what to do to promote myself. I have tried several things. I need to be more aggressive about it.

12. What is the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling you own creations?


That the journey is the best part. Be present and enjoy everything and everyone you meet. You never know what will happen or where it will take you.

13. What advice would you give to others who are thinking about or have just opened an Etsy shop?

I don't like giving advice. One thing I would say is that you need to be honest with yourself and try to enjoy the people. There is more to life than money.

14. Do you have a favorite Etsy artist?

That is too hard to answer. I have many favorites and I wouldn't want to hurt anyone.

There is so much talent and creativity at Etsy.

For stunning aceos, watercolors and collages, visit Six Sisters Etsy shop. Joan's handmade items are so special!

Many thanks to Joan aka sixsisters for granting this interview and for sharing her designs and inspiration!