There is a story here.

The idea of AbFlo started with this one thought: 

Art should be accessible–emotionally and physically. 

I’ve often discounted myself as an “artist”, saying “oh, but I don’t do real art”, simply because my medium was my iPad or a piece of notebook paper. My art is often personal, inspiration pulled from all around me: the music I listen to, the TV I watch, the nature I am surrounded by, the people I care about. When I sit down and lay it all out, my creative endeavors have a far and wide reach. My first year in business, 2024, I often focused on music artists and pop culture–which was all very fun, until it felt like I was only making art with the intent to sell. Not with the intent to create or do great things. I was afraid of pushing myself beyond the bounds I created for myself. It was a nice box, afterall. 

My day job is centered in the art and architecture world, which generally gives me a sense of inspiration to be creative and explore the ideas squandering in my mind. But, at times, it does feel elitist. I don’t think that is the fault of anyone in particular; however, it did encourage me to ask myself:

How can my art be for me but also for others? How can my art be useful? How can my art spread joy? What does it mean for art to be centered on joy? How can my art be appreciated beyond just sitting on a shelf? But, also, how can my art be enjoyed by sitting on a shelf?  

Sure, AbFlo art has (what I like to think is) a distinct style that has been recognized by others. My doodles are usually outlined in black and filled in with color, and my hand lettering has become my own couple of fonts. And, yes, my art typically has an audience–often times women, girls, or gays. And, that is okay, too! Girlhood, womanhood, femininity, daintiness, delicacy, flowers, hearts, stars, pink, purple, bows, cats, trash cats, and sparkles are okay. Seriously.  

HIDDEN TEXT

ABFLO CREATIVE WAS BORN WITH THIS DRAWING OF MY CAT.

So, when I say that I want art–my art–to be accessible emotionally, that doesn’t automatically make it desired by the entire world. Some people will love it, some people may hate it, which seems unnecessary, but I get it. But, it does mean I want my art to be approachable for the right audience, which can be any audience. I want it to be affordable, while still made with high quality and pure intention. 

After one year in business, my art grew into design. My design grew into creating with my hands. Crocheting to macrame to sewing to stamp carving to wood burning–believe me, I have bought an item from most of the Hobby Lobby aisles. 

AbFlo Creative, obviously, encompasses a lot. And I expect it to continue to change, to continue to evolve, to continue to grow. Some new hobbies will be added, some may fade away. Regardless, thank you for joining me on this journey. 

And one big gold star for you if you read this entire narrative.