Interview with Nancy Vidalia

The other day I got a chance to meet and interview a very accomplished crafter. Her name is Nancy Vidalia. Nancy has run a successful Etsy shop since 2003, and currently lives in New York City, where she says she feels is the best place in the world to get inspiration. Her favorite places to get ideas for new projects are china town and fancy bakeries.

Question: What is your favorite craft store to shop at and why?

Answer: Well, I have to say that’s an easy question to start out with. My favorite craft store is without a doubt Michael’s. Why? Because I think they have the best selection when it comes to clay. I also like it because I can often find a coupon for 40% off, and an added bonus is that there is a location within walking distance from my apartment. 

Question: Do you like cold porcelain, polymer clay, or air-dry clay the best, and why?

Answer: Each medium you mentioned is good for its own purpose in my opinion. I like cold porcelain for making things that will be doll-house miniatures, but not for charms because it is too fragile. I like polymer clay best for charms, because I think it is the best at picking up little details, and because it is quite durable and can withstand being bumped around while being used. Air-dry clay is great for making larger pieces, because it keeps them light weight.

Question: What is your favorite thing about what you do?

Answer: I love being an artist for lots of reasons, but a few big ones are that I can get up whenever I want, I don’t have to spend all day boxed into a cubicle, and, most importantly, I get to create anything and everything that I can imagine with nobody telling me what I can and can’t do.

Question: What advice would you give to others who are considering quitting their day jobs and becoming full-time artists to support themselves?

Answer: I whole-heartedly urge them to go for it! It’s a big leap for many, and you may have to sacrifice some of the creature-comforts you can afford now. Ask yourself, and be totally honest in your answers, these three questions. 1. Is this something that will make you truly happy and that you will enjoy for a long time? 2. Could you sell your art in order to make a living to support yourself? 3. Are you completely positive you can handle people criticizing your work? If you think the answer is “yes” to all these questions, go for it!

Question: Do you support the use of moulds when crafting? Why or why not?

Answer: I have mixed feelings about moulds. On the one hand, if you worked really hard to make an original piece and you want to be able to re-create it exactly to sell, than yes, I do think mould-making can be a good thing. On the other hand, it seems like as artists everything we make is one-of-a-kind, and it seems like hand-made and hand-made using a mould do not quite go hand in hand. I guess it depends on the artist and what they personally think. I myself think it is okay to use a mould, as long as you don’t become lazy and make everything with moulds.    

Question: What is your favorite thing to make and why?

Answer: I have always had a special place in my heart for making ice cream scopes. I love that the possibilities are endless as far as flavors and toppings go. I also love to go to the ice cream shops around the city to get new ideas from the wacky flavors they are always coming up with!