A feature, a confession, and a discount code.
I'm super excited to tell you that I've been included in Uppercase Magazine's Surface Pattern Design Guide. Uppercase is a magazine run by two wonderful entrepreneurs who simply love design.
Ok got that out. Now the rest of this I've re-written this 10 times. I was simply going to do the standard, "hey look where I've been featured post", but I can't. I feel like I need to tell you a little more.
But I'm afraid you are going to think at best, I'm cheesy, and at worst, I'm an emotional mess. So please know that I've pulled on my big girl panties to tell you this.
Something about being featured in THIS publication has made me more proud than just the usual feature. You see, I've been at this for a decade. I started really getting into sewing all those years ago because I loved the designs on the fabric. The ride has been so crazy and dizzy since then, I'm not quite sure how I got where I am. And some of you may think, "Come on, she's so successful. How could she feel like this?". But the truth is, it's not easy to Actually. Make. A. Living. By. Creating. I'm not complaining about how I'm paid or what I'm paid. I have several great partners who I adore and am extremely grateful to have.
I'm just saying that to make it in surface design alone you have to reach a critical mass in the number of licenses you have and the number of surfaces that your work is on. That's just a fact. And it is NOT easy to get there.
Does being featured in this magazine mean I've made it? No. Certainly not. But the symbol of the recognition of being in this magazine... with the company I know I'm in... it is just one more thing that is keeping me going.
When I design, I feel like it's coming out of me from me feet up to the top of my head and out. I LOVE designing like it gives me life. There is nothing like believing in yourself and your work for getting you where you need to go. But a little recognition along the way is truly a boost.
Thank you, Janine and Erin. I'm am more than honored to be featured in your beautiful publication.
For a $15 discount on an Uppercase subscription, use code 'USPDG2014'.
Thanks for listening and not judging.
Have a colorful day,
Bari
Woohoo!!!!!
Posted by: Laura Zarrin | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 01:12 PM
so great!!! XO
Posted by: rachael {imagine gnats} | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 01:15 PM
Congrats! Fabulous! & thx for the code!
My subscription ran out- this is appreciated!
Posted by: Shelly kennedy | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 01:37 PM
Congrats - it's a great magazine and your work is beautiful! Overnight success is a rarity - hard work pays off. So happy for you and all your success!
Posted by: Kerry - Kid Giddy | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 01:41 PM
(and thanks for the code) just ordered.
Posted by: Kerry - Kid Giddy | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 01:53 PM
Wonderful! And I understand what you are saying and it fills me with joy for you! Keep it up! Enjoy the ride sister!
Posted by: Lana Elfstrom | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 02:05 PM
There's an old saying. "Do what you love and what you do will take care of you" or something like that. Creativity first. Every artist goes through periods of inspiration. Just be true to yourself and everything else will fall into place. Congrats!
Posted by: Cathy Steiner | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 02:08 PM
WTG Bari!! So happy for you!
Posted by: Mary Tanana | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 02:32 PM
Congratulations, Bari!
Your work is absolutely stunning, and I have fallen in love with every picture you've been posting of late (especially the crazy-haired yoga chick...she reminded me of one of my best friends...LOL). What you create clearly comes from within. Having said that, if your work is even just a partial representation of what is in your heart, then it must be said that your heart is incredibly beautiful.
Posted by: Christine Slaughter | Friday, March 07, 2014 at 08:08 PM
It has been pure pleasure watching you progress to this point in your creative journey. Onward and upward!!
Posted by: Mary | Saturday, March 08, 2014 at 04:56 AM
bari! your work is just stunning and your supportiveness toward us other designers shows that your heart is as big as your talent. congratulations to you!! you deserve it!
Posted by: stephanie | Saturday, March 08, 2014 at 06:05 PM
I've had my eye on subscribing to Uppercase for ages and ages, and thanks to you, I'm their newest subscriber.
Now that this is out of the way, I'm thrilled that you let us know about your success in this endeavor, as you are truly one of a kind and an inspiration. I hope you have a great big smile on your face for months and months about this, and keep it in your happy place in your heart. And yes, I'm quite jealous! but happy for you. (No, I'm not an artist, just an admirer.)
Posted by: Elizabeth E. | Friday, March 14, 2014 at 10:58 AM
Bari, I love this post. I've been fan for a long time. I have one of your purses and still get compliments on it. I was also a featured stitcher on your embroidery blog and I'm happy to see we are both in the MATS class! (Am I starting to seem like stalker? HA!) I watch your career with interest because you are inspiring. I appreciate your honesty and feel hopeful that I can licensing contracts one day too. Thanks for staying authentic!
Posted by: Laura Bray | Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at 11:32 AM