Holly Ann Moore Creates and Inspires Through Art
Holly Ann Moore was born in Durango, Colorado. She was raised in Southwestern Colorado until she moved to California to attend art school. In 1999, Moore moved to Chicago, Illinois, to attend theatrical school.
Moore’s interests include classical dance, fine art, handmade crafts like those involving jewelry and fabric, and costume design. On the flip side, she is also a kidney patient and maintains a strong interest in fitness, nutrition, disease, the body, anatomy, and science.
Moore is now pursuing a psychology degree so she can one day work as an art therapist. Currently, she is a freelance jeweler, illustrator, and designer. She loves to write and perform spoken word.
What is your hobby?
I have several hobbies: painting and drawing, sewing and embroidery, dancing, and beadwork.
How did you get started with this hobby?
I am 54 years old and have been interested and invested in all of my hobbies since I was a child. My parents were both hardworking individuals who were very resourceful and adept with their hands. They taught me so many skills. They are both my true inspirations. They passed when I was pretty young, and I never felt like I did enough for them. I hope to continue the work they taught me and eventually write a book on this as well.
Tell us what you love about your hobby.
I love being able to express my emotions and to be as creative as possible through different mediums. I hope that through art, I can make the world and people’s lives a little bit more happier, more healthier, and more beautiful.
What types of things/equipment have you spent money on for your hobby?
I have spent money on various materials (various types of papers, woods, metals, glass, resins, fabrics) and tools (pencils, pens, paints, needles, saws, hammers, scorers, blades, etc.). I have also spent money on a combined printer/scanner, as well as some types of design software for my laptop (which is a bit basic).
What are some of your favorite places to shop for your hobby?
I enjoy visiting Joanns Fabrics, Michaels Crafts, Block Art, Utrecht, Dollar Tree, Target, Amazon, Walmart, and local craft stores. I also do some recycled and “found item” artwork, and these items can be found in nature or around my house (metal door hinges, toilet paper rolls, crushed eggshells, oatmeal boxes, leather eyeglass cases).
How much money have you invested into this? How much would a beginner have to invest to get started?
I am certain I’ve spent thousands of dollars over the past several years. Personally, I think this would depend on the artist’s medium and favored use of tools. So, to start in this field, I think it would depend, but I would definitely say to invest in quality drawing and painting paper and canvases, paint brushes (of different sizes), turpentine, linseed oil, oil paints, acrylics, and watercolors. For the crafting, I would say invest in plenty of needles, thread, beads and various types of fabric.
Are there any good books for beginners?
“Colour Dynamics” by Angela Lord and “Mastering Beadwork” by Carol Huber Cypher. Also, for a great art/craft business book, there is “The Crafts Business Answer Book,” by Barbara Brabec.
Are there any online videos you recommend to help beginners?
I don’t have any specific links I am subscribed to. I will simply type in what I am researching, choose from one or two of several that pop up, and pick the one that is either closest to my style or can enhance my unique style even more.
How has your hobby changed your life?
It has definitely taught me much more patience, dedication, and tenacity. Since painting and beadwork can both be tedious and very detailed work, you have to stay completely focused on the task at hand to completion, which can sometimes take awhile to complete. It has taught me to prioritize my time better and make and stick to deadlines.
What advice do you have for others starting out with this hobby?
Just be patient with yourself and your craft. You will be your own worst critic, so learn to love your mistakes and how to learn from them, grow from them, grow with them, and embrace them. Sometimes the mistakes will lead you into another direction or they can change the entire project. Go with the flow of your ideas.