Introducing ... Britt Ford

After writing the feature on Well + Wonder a lot of artists reached out to me to introduce themselves. Since I don't know a lot about art but am very drawn to artists I asked them all to share more about their work and themselves.  I was very excited to meet so many darling artists which I will be featuring over the next few months.

One of the first to reach out to me was the darling and super talented Britt Ford.  I truly loved Britt's email as she introduced herself and shared some of her work.  I think part of me always wanted to be an artist, letting the paint and the canvas take me wherever I wanted to go. In art class I always was excited to try out oils and watercolor.  I was never very good but I am thrilled to meet and share some of the best in their field.

The first thing that impressed me about Britt was her spunk and her detailed email introducing me to her work.  She told me exactly how she felt we were a good match and how we could work together. Girl had done her homework and I was very impressed!  She creates one of a kind thermographic embossed maps and illustrations and has caught the eye of Urban Outfitters along with some local shops who carry her creations.  She created her own medium to be able to produce "100% custom 3D artwork that doesn't break the bank.  Your home, boat, neighborhood, you name it and I'll make it". 

See why I was drawn to her?  You will love her work ...

I had the pleasure of getting to know a lot more about Britt as we chatted over the phone.  She is creating a fabulous gift for the Hubs for his birthday and I can't wait to give it to him.  I love that her pieces have so much detail and are so personal.  It is hard to give gifts that have true meaning when you have been together a long time and I am beyond thrilled with this one!

More about this talented girl ... 

Where did you grow up and how did your childhood influence your career as an artist?

I grew up in Chatham, New Jersey - 35 minutes west of New York City. Growing up I played sports and was recruited to play lacrosse for the University of Denver. My Mom always made sure that I took art classes in addition to sports which ended up being the best thing because my lacrosse career ended early due to multiple knee surgeries. I’m never able to run or play sports again so having that creative side really came in handy as an adult. My Mom is truly the person who influenced my creativity - every time my Dad would go on a business trip we would redo a room, from painting the walls, refinishing furniture to picking out new fabrics. I've been a DIY-er since day one thanks to my Mother.

As a little girl what did you want to be when you grew up?

I started working at a high end jewelry and home decor store, F. Gerald New at the age of 14. I always knew I wanted to own my own company but wasn't sure what direction that would lead to.

Anything you wish you had done along the way and didn't do?

I wish I had taken more drawing classes. I can draw on the computer but really struggle with free-hand and shadows. It's not too late though, I believe that you can never stop learning and YouTube has some pretty amazing tutorials.

Share two people who have inspired your career and why?

1. Marie Forleo - Almost three years ago I quit my corporate fashion job and started nannying in Chatham to have more time to work on my company. I had watched a few of Marie’s podcasts and was instantly hooked but couldn't afford to take part of her coaching series, B-School. She offered a few scholarships and in order to win you had to submit a YouTube video. I was fortunate to win a scholarship and B-School was literally the best thing to happen to me as an entrepreneur. Through weeks of modules and exercises Marie helped me shape my ideas and passions into an actual business model. Any entrepreneur that feels like they don't know which road to take should really look into B-School.

2. My other half, Parker. Parker has supported me since day one and has been there for me on the best and worst days. I really don't know how he does it sometimes. PJ pushes me to be a better person - he's always there to offer an ear, read over pitches and give me constructive criticism. There have been days where I'm a complete train wreck but I know that when I come home PJ will be there with open arms and words of wisdom.


Can you share a high point in your career and what was that like for you?

Last Summer, after six months of negotiations I received a purchase order from Urban Outfitters. It was for 375 12x12 units of David Bowie, Prince and Drake. An acquaintance from growing up reached out and I wouldn't have been able to do it without her pushing for me at corporate. It was awesome to get an order from such an established brand but absolutely crazy. I had to get a loan in order to purchase all of the supplies and learned so much about producing artwork at such a large scale. It helped me realize who my customer base is, that I wanted to do do more custom artwork and work directly with my customers/small retailers. It was good exposure and I'm really grateful for the experience.

What inspires you to create?

- My clients - I want to create beautiful pieces that make a lasting impression and provide happiness
- Natural light
- Water (the ocean and Lake George)
- Traditional architecture

Do you have a favorite thing to create?

Recently I have been creating Turkish floral patterns with gouache and thermographic embossing - they’re totally unique, colorful and really make a statement. I also love making home portraits, each one is different and they are by far the most meaningful gift.

Do you have a favorite color?

Navy, navy, navy. And gold!

Anything you must have to spur creativity?

A clear mind and time. If I feel rushed or am worrying about something I cannot create.

Favorite item on your desk (or creative space)?

My navy Smythson agenda. I bring it with me everywhere - it has all of my to-do’s and calendars.

What is your favorite way to unwind?

A gin & diet tonic and chatting/cooking dinner at home with Parker. It is my favorite time of the day.
Five must haves.

- Chai tea
- Natural light
- My agenda
- Gin and diet tonic
- Flavor blasted goldfish (I could seriously live off of these)

Favorite quote. 

I have two!!

It all begins and ends in your mind. What you give power to, has power over you. - Leon Brown

For what it’s worth: It’s never too late to be whoever you want to be. I hope you live a life you’re proud of, and if you find that you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start over. - F. Scott Fitzgerald.

I can't wait to see Britt grow and her one of a kind pieces in stores nation wide.  Until then you can order her one of a kind pieces which make fabulous gifts.  I can not wait to gift the one she is working on for me.  He will be so surprised.  

You must check out all of her work on her website and follow her on Instagram.  To place an order from contact her here.  

Thank you darling girl for introducing herself  to me and creating an opportunity for us to work together.  I see a long and happy friendship in our future!

Happy Monday all!