Hello, everyone! Continuing my series on women who are in business, entrepreneurs or just doing something cool, today I’m featuring Kansas City fiber artist Lauri Davidson. I had the privilege of working with Lauri for a short while, and I can tell you she creates fabulous pieces – I’m especially partial to her unique and colorful scarves.

First, tell us a little about your job/activity. What is your role/position?

I am an artist who creates with fabric and raw fibers like wool and silk. I tend to look for new ways to manipulate and create wearable works of art which I sell through a wonderful little art gallery called Eclectics Gift Gallery in Kansas City’s Waldo area. I became a member in January 2014. This is a co-op of 10-12 member artists who work together to run the shop. Each artist takes on a specific job to operate and maintain the shop and works in the shop several times a month. It’s the perfect opportunity to have time to create but also interact with customers and the other members about art.

What’s a typical day look like? 

Well, every day is a new adventure lately. Generally, I get moving to purrs and meows from our little family of kitties who require some morning chores. Usually by mid morning, I get to my studio with my fuzzy helpers to create or research how to make an idea I have in my head. It’s all about taking the pictures from my head to reality.

On days I spend at Eclectics, I usually prepare the night before tagging products, or organizing projects that I might work on in the shop. At the shop, it is a combination of greeting customers and getting things done around the shop. It could be restocking, checking for holes in displays or just cleaning up.

What do you love about it? 

I love working with customers who love art. It doesn’t need to be my art, but they love art and appreciate the creative process. Next, I love the creating process although sometimes I get too many ideas, and I just have to make a list so that I don’t forgetter things I want to try. Last, I enjoy working with a group of creative talented women whose creativity is amazing and inspiring. 

Tell us about your journey. Did you always want to do this?

I taught high school English, yearbook, newspaper and video for 27 years at Raytown High School. I loved working with the kids to develop the creative ideas especially in the publication classes. When I retired in 2013, it was my turn to create. I grew up with a mother who was always creating and is an incredible quilter, so working with fabric and sewing came naturally. I joined the Kansas City Fiber Guild and participated in their yearly show Creative Hand. While working with the KC Fiber Guild, I discovered Eclectics.

What do you wish people knew about your business?

This business has endured so many changes and challenges since its inception in 1991, and it has continued to survive and offer Kansas City a place to find the most unique gifts and art. Next year, Eclectics will celebrate 30 years. It has allowed many artists a place to share their artwork.

What do you bring to your field/job that you think is special?

I think I have a creative eye especially for color. I love playing with different tones and color combinations. Also, I love to take found items and redirect their purpose. I often upcycle fabric from thrift store clothing. At the store, I enjoy helping customers find that perfect gift solution or art piece that makes them smile.

What is your favorite book/movie/quote?

I always loved teaching Romeo and Juliet. For 27 years, I taught freshman English, and one of my favorite units was Romeo and Juliet. In his day, Shakespeare wrote for the masses and spoke to all the classes of society. The themes in Romeo and Juliet reached kids at all levels. At times, my struggling students would identify with the characters’ difficult situations. I loved watching a student light up because he/she/they suddenly “got” it and discovered they could relate to the character’s struggle.

Where can we find/follow you on social media?

https://www.eclecticskc.com

https://www.facebook.com/EclecticsGallery

Your website: https://www.milostoes.com

Thanks for sharing with us today, Lauri! If you have questions for Lauri, ask them here then be sure to check out her amazing wearable art on her social media sites. #supportsmallbusiness

As always, happy reading to all!

Darlene