An Interview with The Queen of Cups

Each of Beth’s pieces of art is very unique. I have to describe her mixed-media style as vintage. But there is so much more to it than that. She describes her style as “shabby-chic.” The majority of her pieces are layers upon layers of collected papers and stamping, making each of them “one-of-a-kind” collages. Be it a card, or a tag, or any size of art she creates, you can tell from her finished pieces the love and joy she expresses in this medium.

Enjoy this interview. Let her know just what her art brings to you.

How did you get your start in the world of art?
I've always loved art and making art. But I never had really focused my efforts on anything specific. A few years ago my friend invited me to a rubber stamping party. I immediately fell in love with stamping and making cards as I've always been into correspondence. The style of the stamp club didn't suit me and I soon found myself having developed my own style of collage and rubber stamping. My style seems to progress daily as do my themes.

Do you have a ritual you perform before you start creating?
The only ritual I have before creating is turning on the radio!! I've got to listen to music while I create! Oh, I always wash my hands, too.

What do you like best, the creative process or the final creation?
I lovelovelove every bit of making art! The process of making my pieces is always such a breeze. I love coming to the end of the process too. The only part that is difficult for me is critiquing my work. I am, I think, way too hard on myself, although I love everything I make!

What are your favorite art media, tools, and supplies?
My favorite part of art is all the paper. I have piles and piles of it! Whether it is plain cardstock, patterned paper, or pages torn from books, I adore it! I am also a big fan of glitter. Bling is so much fun, isn't it?


When a creative block happens, what process do you go through to get the creative juices flowing again?
Since I started creating with my collage style a few years ago, I have only had a few creative blocks. I just wait until they go away and then I'm going again. Of course cleaning my studio always helps! I can always find something "new" and enticing to work with if I delve through the layers on my table and floor!

What do you hope your art says about you?
I guess I hope my art says that I am a happy go lucky, loving girl!

What is your greatest dream and greatest fear as an artist?
My greatest fear as an artist is that I don't like my work anymore. And my greatest dream is to never stop creating. I hope the inspiration goes on and on. Changing what type of art I create is just fine with me, as long as I am continue to create!

What are your goals in art, and in life?
My goals in life are to raise happy and healthy children and to keep my husband happy. :) My goal in art is to make some money!! haha Who makes money selling cards? Maybe someday I will be able to sell some of my pieces to Hallmark!!??


Tell us a little bit about yourself—where you grew up, your life now, other creative pursuits, other interests and hobbies.
I grew up in a small town near Cleveland, Ohio. I've only lived away from Cleveland for a few years of my life. I am the younger of two sisters and have FABulous parents who are extremely supportive of me. I always had excellent art teachers in school and college. How lucky for me! I am now married to the most wonderful man. He is my dream man and keeps me completely satisfied; he is also very supportive of me and my pursuits! We have two smart and beautiful children. I'm so lucky to have them all!
I have bipolar disorder which sometimes keeps me from creating, but also can give me wonderful bursts of artistic inspiration. My disease is stable, thanks to my wonderful family, and I work hard to keep it that way. I try to share this bit about me because so many people out there think that this sort of disease is an embarrassment and should be a secret. I rejoice that I am healthy and am able to draw from my illness in a positive way.


Do you have more than one online shop(s), or a blog?
I have a shop on 1000Markets named The Queen of Cups. I also have a shop on Etsy called The Queen of Cups.: My blog is The Queen of Cups Runneth Over.
Of course my inventory is low right now as I am prepping for my next art show! But I always take custom and wholesale orders!

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