Every now and then fate hands you the good fortune of working with the right person for just about any job. For us, that’s Austin-based art director, illustrator, and watercolor artist, Kelly Colchin. She’s worn many different cowgirl hats for us over the years, and most recently collaborated on the limited edition Sunrise/Sunset Scarf in celebration of Mother’s Day. We sat down to chat about how she translated the lived experience of motherhood into a one-of-a-kind work of art.
Q:
Kelly, we love working with you and when the idea for a special piece for Mother’s Day came up, you immediately came to mind. Tell us about the inspiration for this piece of art?
A:
I loved the idea that motherhood is the story of sunrises and sunsets — early morning feedings, strong coffee and quiet time as the sun peaks above the horizon and chases the moon out of the sky. At the end of the day there are fireflies, the sound of cicadas and savoring a sunset with a tiny hand in your hand. For me, this pattern is a daily reflection of hope and renewal. Sometimes there will be tough times, but like all mothers, the sun must continue her journey. Each morning, the sunrise brings the promise of growth and love. And every sunset reminds us that tomorrow you can begin again. This scarf is my impression of this journey as seen through the hazy filter of motherhood. The design is abstract and beautiful, painted with the colors of the sun as I remember them.
Q:
Can you take us inside your process to bring the idea to life?
A:
I did some journaling to think about what being a mom means to me and then some sketching to think about ways to bring this idea to life. I wanted to make something that was meaningful to me, but I also wanted a scarf that was beautiful and I would want to wear. I loved the idea of a scarf that showed a sunrise and a sunset depending on how you turn it. When I started painting the elements — the moon, the suns, etc. — I knew this was the right idea for this project and I got excited. I am so happy with how it turned out. I love wearing my scarf but I also have one hanging in my office as a piece of art.
Q:
Besides your work as an artist, you also have a full-time job as a mom! What’s your favorite thing about being a mom?
A:
Being a mom is my favorite job and my children are hands down the best thing I have ever made. I love being able to experience life through my kid’s eyes and being able to relive my favorite childhood memories with them. Both of my kids love art and we spend a lot of time playing music, dancing and making things. It’s pure joy for me to watch them grow into their own forms of expression.
Q:
Working hard and parenting hard can feel like the Wild West sometimes… What would you say to a busy mom who’s determined to stay passionate about their work while also being a great mom?
A:
I am not going to sugarcoat this — it can be very hard. It’s painful to stop a project when you are in a flow state to go get your kids from school or put them to bed. I used to joke that when they were babies I was painting pictures in my mind. But it’s true. I have done the best I can to stay creative while giving myself the permission to enjoy this short time. It’s a daily challenge but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q:
How are you hoping to spend her Mother's Day this year? (We’ll pass this along to your family!)
A:
I always love to do something outdoors like a hike on the greenbelt or a walk to the park. Then, I want to have a delicious meal with my family while everyone tells me what a great mom I am. We shall see.
Q:
As a mom, what does Don’t Go Gently mean to you?
A:
Motherhood is short. I try my hardest to be present every day and not take this gift of time with my children for granted. I want to remember every second. Don’t Go Gently is a reminder to live with intention and cherish every day as best I can.
Credits
Questions
Team Tecovas
Answers
Kelly ColchinStudio & Design Process Images By:
Mackenzie Smith KelleyKelly & Daughter Image By:
Alysha Rainwaters