We had the good fortune of connecting with Megan Kaple Afansev and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Megan Kaple, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve always known that my career would revolve around the arts. From a young age, I’ve always found joy in making and creating. It’s a part of who I am, and I can’t imagine spending my life doing anything else. My grandmother, who is a skilled seamstress and owns a business that creates custom bedspreads and window treatments has been a major inspiration. I’ve always admired her ability to create all day, every day, and it’s something I wanted out of life. Ultimately, my decision to pursue a creative career has been driven by a lifelong passion and a genuine desire to create things that make people happy whether that’s designing socks, painting landscapes, or teaching.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think of myself as having two careers; both in the arts but wildly different. In my first career, I designed clothing and textiles for about 10 years. I designed children’s wear for Vineyard Vines, Kate Spade, and Ralph Lauren. Then for about four years, I designed licensed socks and hosiery for a few different brands that sold to major retailers. The fashion industry has its problems but I learned a lot about the creative process; how to find inspiration, and how to work with other creative people.
My second career began when I realized I was spending more time commuting and sending emails than I was designing. The arts had given me so much, I felt like I needed to share what I had learned with other people. That’s when I began graduate school, teaching art, and painting more and more.
The idea for Habitat Art Studio came while researching my thesis which centered around the importance of creating a sustainable art classroom. My research showed that young children who spend quality time outdoors connecting with nature tend to learn more naturally, cultivating their creativity and curiosity at the highest levels. As a full-time elementary teacher, I work to find ways to infuse art and nature into the classroom.
Eventually, I would love for Habitat to host workshops, camps, and classes that can bring sustainable outdoor art education to my community. Habitat Art Studio is currently focused on sharing my own work. My artwork invites viewers to pause, reflect, and find connection with the patterns and beauty that exist within nature and the places we inhabit. I focus on painting places that I’ve been and experienced with the hope they will serve as a reminder of the importance of embracing sustainable habits and cultivating a harmonious relationship with our surroundings.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
All of the women in my life! I wouldn’t have the courage to share my work without them.
Website: habitatartstudio.com and/or meganafansevstudio.com
Instagram: @habitatartstudio