Zahra @loveandletterdesign
Artist of the month November
My name is Zahra and I am 26 years old. Together with my husband and Chihuahua we live in southern Hesse exactly in the middle between Frankfurt and Heidelberg.
I have been painting all my life and in 2018 I dared to start my small business LoveandletterDesign ( @loveandletterdesign).
My main job is working at a small elementary school in school social work and leading the all-day program.
That's me in five words:
Creative, honest, loyal, feminist, determined.
Interview
How did you come across the subject of Watercolor and did you know right away "this is more than just a hobby"?
I have always loved to paint. In 2016, my husband proposed to me and I knew right away that I wanted to design the invitation cards myself. So then I got into handlettering. Especially through May and Berry I have then specialized in Watercolor and paint now actually exclusively with it 😊
What role does being creative play in your everyday life? Are you creative in other ways besides designing and painting the artwork?
In my work as a social worker at an elementary school, I always have the opportunity to be creative and to contribute myself and my creativity and do artistic projects with the children.
Where do you find the most inspiration?
This probably sounds boring, but actually in nature! And also at work. The children's imagination stimulates mine as well.
How did you manage to find your own style?
In the beginning I tried out many different styles and had a lot of exchange with other creatives. Over time, I knew what suits me well and what does not. But I still think that you have to evolve and be open to try something new.
Do you sometimes have a "creative low" and no desire to paint?
Oh yes, especially when I'm stressed. Then I leave
the brushes sometimes and try not to put myself under pressure.
Do you have role models - if so, which ones?
Many! I can't name them all. A few examples: Mayandberry, Baervonpappe, Mona from Halfbird.
Creativity and social media - what are your thoughts on this?
The negative: Can definitely put extreme pressure... often you compare yourself, think you're worse. Always the struggle to look good in the Instagram algorithm.
The positive: you get to know a lot of people who love
exactly the same as you, a lot of exchange, inspiration.
Do you have any other creative goals and dreams you're looking forward to?
I would like to reduce my hours in social work to have more time for my store. Ideally, I would also like to own a small store or studio and illustrate children's books.
I think in the end it will come as it should come 😊
Thank you very much for the great interview, dear Zahra.