We had the good fortune of connecting with Madisen Raymond and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Madisen, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Art has been a big part of my life as far as I can remember. I’ve always had a hard time at any job that didn’t allow for some kind of creative or artistic outlet. When I became a stay at home mom, I decided to pursue a side hustle where I could create whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and share it with others to help support my family.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve dabbled in all sorts of art forms over the years, but I started crocheting at 8 years old and it’s easily the art form I’ve grown the most with. Around 5 years ago, I moved beyond making simple hats and dishcloths, and into making intricate tops. Through lots of trial and error, and so much repitition, I’ve learned how to make my visions come to life by creating my own patterns. Recently, I’ve taken to making earrings and tapestry crochet, which has been the most fun I’ve had with it yet. My favorite things to make right now are little mushroom earrings, they’re so cute and bring me a lot of joy. I’m really inspired by colorful and kitschy art from the 1970s, so I try to work that into what I make. I’m a big fan of anything handmade, quirky, one-of-a-kind, and that’s what I’m sharing with the world with the things I create.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First stop would be an hike on one of the many awesome trails up in Poudre Canyon, followed by lunch on the river at the Mishawaka Amphitheater. Maybe catch a show there, too, if we’re lucky! It’s truly the best place to hang and see live music in Northern Colorado.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My partner, Matthew Fredricey! He’s an incredible artist, working primarily with oil paints. He’s pushed me to create when I thought I wasnt “good enough”, and gives me a lot of inspiration through watching his own artistic process and success.

Instagram: @groovymayacrochet

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groovymaya?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Other: Etsy shop: https://groovymayashop.etsy.com

Image Credits
myself

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