Balsam Ponds with a Passion for Paper

Carol of Balsam Ponds describes herself as “a city girl living and designing in the deep woods of Minnesota.”


After I read her interview I feel like that a very large portion of her creative inspiration comes from her family. She was raised in a large family (eight to be exact). In fact her ArtFire studio is partnered with her brother.

Carol is a very active member of the ArtFire Guild “Passion for Paper.” And in her already busy schedule she has started a new venture in her art career. She has begun the process of reproducing her designer cards. Her goal is to make her designs and her love of art available to all people. I have picked out a few examples that I liked best. I feel like the “art selecting” is the most difficult in writing a blog. I usually like everything that a particular artist is creating.

Visit Carol’s studio and leave a comment here about your favorite.


How did you get your start in the world of art?
I was an artist, of sorts, since I can remember. I was not overly social so I spent most of my time drawing. My mom, on a trip, gave me a colored pencil kit. It awakened me to art. After that I was crazy for every media for drawing.

Do you have a ritual you perform before you start creating?
I say a little prayer and sit quietly as the talent he gave me awakens. Then and only then am I ready.


What do you like best, the creative process or the final creation?
Both, but the creativity is often trumped by the finished project. Mostly, because I am so involved creating, I arrive in the end with something I love. Even when in the middle of it I fear a failure.

What are your favorite art media, tools, and supplies?
At 57 years old that is a hard question. Every stage was totally complete. Drawing with chalk, graphite, on any
paper I could get my hands on. In high school jewelry making, mobiles, and sewing. Working years, graphic designer, brochure designer, trade show designer. Touched into the world of interior design, but didn't want another career. So, now it is paper designs in the form of greeting cards. My new adventure is reproducing my now designer cards to bring my designs to all.


When a creative block happens, what process do you go through to get the creative juices flowing again?
Mostly get sleep and relax. I am stressful by nature, so artwork is where I get grounded. I also watch a movie, my favorite is a chick flick. Something to just make me smile.

What do you hope your art says about you?
That I am a real person who wants others to be happy even if only for that moment when they receive a card designed by me.


What is your greatest dream and greatest fear as an artist?
Greatest dream…my card business actually starts paying back. Greatest fear…that fear of failure will win over my drive, and that the fact that I get such great reviews from others who receive my cards will not be enough.

What are your goals in art, and in life?
Goals, hum well, to continue to evolve into someone I can be proud of. I change when I feel the need, in life and art.


Tell us a little bit about yourself-where you grew up, your life now, other creative pursuits, other interests and hobbies.
To many years to cover, but I am from a great family of eight, we are very close. I lost my Mom and Dad and think of them often. They are the reason I function so well in this world. My interest is growing as a person and being loved and respected by my dear husband.

Do you have an online shop or shops, a website, a brick and mortar shop, and/or a blog?
My blog at http://balsamponds.blogspot.com.
My ArtFire studio http://balsamponds.artfire.com; and my Etsy shop http://balsampondsdesign.etsy.com.

Thanks so much for stopping by and learning more about me!