Spaces // Amanda Wright of Wit & Wistle

Let's kick off another week with a peek into designer and shop owner, Amanda Wright's workspace. Amanda runs the illustrative paper shop, Wit & Whistle. Wit & Whistle is full of beautiful designed and illustrated cards and goods, some with a perfectly quirky saying or illustration -- my favorite? The Uterus Birthday Card! You have to check it out!

Tell us about yourself as a creative. 

I design and illustrate stationery and paper products, but my creative interests are so spread out that it was difficult for me to pick one thing to focus on. Luckily I can use my blog as an outlet for any excess creative energy. As long as I'm making something, whatever it is, I'm happy. 

Describe your creative journey. 

In first grade I made pretend business cards for myself that said "artist". I took art classes all through school, and then I majored in Graphic Design at the North Carolina State College of Design. I chose graphic design because, according to my high school self, I wanted a practical creative job so that I wouldn't have to be a starving artist. After graduating I spent several years working at a firm designing logos, annual reports, websites, and such. Most clients didn't allow me much creative freedom, and I had a feeling that I couldn't keep working like that for long without doing permanent damage to my creative spirit. With my husband's support and encouragement I quit my job and started Wit & Whistle.

Share a little bit about your space. 

I set up my studio in our finished basement. It's quite nice for a basement. Two sets of french doors provide more natural light than most basements have, and there's even a fireplace down here! 

What's your favorite thing about your space? 

I love that my studio is separate from the rest of the house. I can make a huge mess if I need to, and I don't have to worry about cleaning it up right away. I also love that my dogs think my work space is their own personal dog park. They often hurtle around the room chasing each other while I work. 

What's one thing you think every creative needs in their space?

I think every creative space needs at least one potted plant. My studio doesn't get tons of light, but I've managed to keep my snake plant alive. I think a little leafy green stimulates the creative juices.

Thanks Amanda!

Check her out : Shop | Blog | Twitter