TRACYE CHIN MUELLER 80 GD

TCMfeltDesigns

Based in Providence, RI

How does your current creative practice tie into your time spent at RISD?

RISD taught me to always think outside the box and I rarely turn down a commission even if it something I have never made or have no idea how I might actually put it together. I always have faith that I can figure it out in a creative way!

What are some of the most important practices for your creative process?

My most rewarding aspects of my work is when a customer requests a very special item or items for me to make, whether it be for a special occasion like a wedding, or a piece that will remind them of a beloved pet. The response when they receive the items makes all that hard work so worthwhile!

Tell us about some of your main sources of inspiration.

My inspiration comes from the natural world around us and my love for all living creatures.

Is there a work/body of work that you are particularly excited about sharing with us at RISD Craft this year?

I am always excited to share my needle felting kits because I know how excited I was when I made my first sculpture. Many people do not think they can make anything like this, but my kits are designed for this person in mind, and I have never had a customer who said they did not enjoy the process or the final product. I often get a photo from my customers of their final product and each one is lovely!

How have you dealt with the challenge of maintaining a creative practice that feeds your soul but also helps pay the bills?

I tend to be a perfectionist, okay I am a perfectionist, and especially with needle felting, you can spend more time than you should on each sculpture. I have to remind myself constantly that the piece is done and to put down my needles.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I do want to share that this is the first year my daughter and I will both be in the RISD Craft and I am very excited! My daughter is a 2014 illustration graduate and she helped me when I was in the show a few years back and last year I helped her when she was in the show. We also have a business together called Minnow & Moss, which will again be featured at her display. We are asking to be placed next to each other because we still want to share this experience together. Nothing makes this mother happier than creating beautiful art with her best girl!

To see more of Tracye’s work, visit his Etsy page