Featured Artist "Anikas Art"

I was browsing through some shops on Etsy and came across Anikas Art, a place where you can find a variety of unique and creative pieces. What really drew me in was her "egg" art. Having just come back from a cruise where the theme in the dining room was the Russian Faberge Eggs it just piqued my interest and I asked her is I could feature her shop on my blog.

Tell me a little about yourself.

My name is Anika. I am born and raised in Germany and all my relatives and family still live there. I am married to an American. I came to the USA during an exchange program of my University, then did several internships in the same city in the USA and met my now husband during that time. I have a degree in architecture, but work currently as an architectural CAD technician until my German degree is accredited.I love animals, particularly horses and dogs and own one of each.I crafted, painted etc since I can remember. I just love to do it!I also love fantasy art, books and movies.

What made you decide to work with eggs in your art?

A friend of mine who does a lot of crafting made also Ukrainian Eggs. I found the intricate work very fascinating and asked her on one occasion if she could show me how to do that. She showed me and gave me books that she learned from. I have used eggs in my art in different variations ever since.

Where does your inspiration come from?

From nature, movies, books, friends, my work, my family, my pets.

What is the process to producing your painted eggs?

To make an egg I use the traditional methods for making what is called Ukrainian Eggs, even though I use my own (non-traditional) designs. I lay out the design in pencil on a blown-out egg. Then I use bees wax and a special tool to draw the lines of one color in wax on the egg. I go from the lightest to the darkest color. I dip the egg into a colored dye bath for each round. After each dip I let the egg dry, then I draw the next time wax on the egg for the next color. This is also called a wax resist technique. After the egg dried from the last dip I melt and wipe off the wax to reveal all the colors. Then I varnish the egg to make the colors last, since the dyes by themselves are not water resistant.

The detail on this egg is fabulous, especially considering the delicate canvas Anika has to work with.

Anika sells her paintings on canvas too. This is called "Abstract Lighthouse". I chose this one because I could feel the intensity of the waves crashing against the lighthouse.

What is your favorite piece in your shop and why?

My favourite piece is my red gourd dragon. I love him for his uniqueness.

As always, I like to show where each artist does all their creating. For Anika, it is currently her dining room table but she hopes to build a workspace for herself in her basement soon.

Do you sell anywhere other than Etsy?

I only sell on etsy at this time. My blog is: http://anikasuniquecreations.blogspot.com/

Anika also works with polymer clay and makes some lovely jewelry so be sure to stop by her shop and take a peek. Her talents are truly endless.