Your Company Name: Wanda Wonderful Inc.
Email Address/Web Page: Snippyland@aol.com
City & State: San Antonio, TX
Type of Craft: Polymer Clay Sculptures
Tell us in your own words, how you discovered polymer clay and how long have you been using it?
I bought my first box nearly 14 years ago. I found it in a
craft supply store and thought I'd give it a try. I was working the night
shift,as a police dispatcher. When all was quiet for the night, I brought
it out, to kill time. I began with a small amount (golf ball size). By the
end of the shift, my first bust was finished. I couldn't believe how
naturally it came.! Been hooked ever since! I've even created a life size
figure to ride in my van with me. From miniatures to lifesize..I love it
all.
Are there any special artists that you can attribute your interest to or that have inspired you?
I have enjoyed that works of Tom Clark. Even met him and
exchanged ideas. He came to a signing event for collectors, and my work was
on display. Many people were thinking that some of my work was his. He had me come sit with him to answer questions on my pieces. (hah) I also enjoy the late Robert Mckinley's work,as well as Maureen Carlson. Have all of their instructional videos.
What is your specialty?
I enjoy storybook characters (ie..Captain Hook,Leprechaun,
circus clown,baby dragon,elves,Merlin,Santa Claus,Ebenezer Scrooge)
Can you tell us why you find polymer clay the expressive medium for you?
I enjoy the responsiveness. It is so convenient to use
because of the non drying factor,non crumbling, and is a clean product.
Have you published any polymer clay books or do you have any in the works?
Not yet!
I know it is very difficult to express, but have you won any awards for your polymer clay work?
Years ago,I occasionally appeared on a noon time segment of
local news for creative living ideas and demos. My displays have earned
first place ribbons for four, consecutively. Go figure!!
What are your expectations for the future? Where do you hope to be 5 years from now?
Hoping to retire within next 5-7 years, and get into a
creative field. Want to create displays for theme parks and other
commercial establisments.
Do you have any advice for the beginning polymer clay enthusiasts?
My advice is to simply "begin as if you already know what
you're doing!" Ignore excuses not to try....for excuses merely give you
permission to fail. Believe!
Are you a member of any Polymer Clay group,or any other craft
organization?
Not yet.
What brands of polymer clay do you prefer and why?
I use Super Sculpey,and a product called Model Magic, so far.
Haven't tried the others,but plan to.
Last and most important can you tell us all about you? Your family, your training?
My wonderful and supportive husband and I have been together
for 17 years. I have two,beautiful grown sons. My grandfather,whom I never
met,was a designer for christmas displays in the 30's and 40's. (created
mechanical santas and elves..etc) I became interested in this field even
as a child. Guess I wish to carry on where he left off. Incidentally, I
suppose you might find it amusing to know that I ran away with a circus at
16 and began my exposure to creative design. Had to learn to create
spectacular props and sets on a shoe string budget. I always had an
attraction to glitter and magical things. The discovery of being able to
create a tangible object from something imagined in my head, is very
exciting.
