Today we’d like to introduce you to Maura Bosbyshell.
Hi Maura, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m an art-forward textile designer who loves working with texture. Currently, I design fabric and wallcoverings for my company, Bosbyshell Art + Home, but I have loved fabric since I was young. For many years, I purchased fabric commercially, and as the number of fabric stores dwindled, I began designing my own patterns. After rewarding careers in data analytics and education, I finally had the time to learn Adobe for the technical side of textile design.
In my design process, I explore traditional fiber art techniques, including hand-dyeing, ice dyeing, natural dyeing, roller printing, cyanotype, and others. Adding to the richness of my source material, I collaborate with my artist spouse, Wil Bosbyshell (bosbyshellartstudio.com). For example, his drawings of ancient Roman ruins in Provence form the basis of the Arches toile, a key pattern in my South of France collection.
Combining digital and traditional fiber art skills, the result is an art-forward textile line that can be printed on fabrics and wallcoverings. My goal is to inspire peace and joy, and a desire to travel. Another key result is that I get to do what I love: designing textiles and working with people to enhance their home with color, pattern, and intrigue.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I face the same challenges all creatives face – funding, support, and the need to do it all. So often creatives have little energy left for marketing and operations. And the costs of marketing, technology, studio rent really add up. In the textile design field, I spend an enormous amount of money on test printing patterns, and printing samples for interior designers and other clients.
However, the largest obstacle I face is the barrier to entry in textile design. Many interior designers and consumers purchase from known, national brands. The national design houses can bring a sense of status to a home. It’s really hard to get the word out and compete as a boutique design house, though I offer a unique product on a smaller scale.
Another challenge is that for me this is a slow build. I haven’t had overnight success. It’s an investment of time, money, energy, and a lot of perseverance. Fortunately, I’m starting to see payoffs.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My textile designs reflect two loves: 1) nature and the outdoors, and 2) travel, adventure, and exploring. The third love, the most overarching, and one that guides my life, is the love of connection – to friends, family, and to other cultures. Nature and connection is what inspires me to design, and I truly hope that I am able to inspire others to a life of peace, love, and joy. What better way to inspire others than in the place where we all spend the most time = in our homes, our place of sanctuary.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’m quite passionate about designing fabrics and wallcoverings. I would design 24/7 if it were possible. But I also recognize that passion can be a double-edged sword: too much can lead to disappointment and stress when things don’t go as hoped. There is an ongoing need to manage my physical and mental health. But at the same time, I get to spend time doing what I absolutely love. My advice is that, as creatives, we need to find a sustainable balance that enables us to create and share, but also take care of our whole selves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bosbyshellartandhome.com/
- Instagram: @BosbyshellArtandHome
