Never stop learning, always be kind, inspire happiness— these are the principles driving artist Holly Boone. She was first introduced to fibre and needle-felted works while working as a volunteer for the Alberta Craft Council, where her new passion was encouraged and soon developed into the self-described “fun-loving, smooshy balls of fluff” you can now find in shops across Edmonton. Meet Holly Boone…
How would you describe your artistic style?
I have a wild imagination and am truly a child at heart. My work derives directly from my love of animals and nature, my obsession with colour (the more colour the better!), and having been raised with Richard Scarry books, The Muppets, Sesame Street, and Saturday morning cartoons like Looney Tunes and Pee-wee’s Playhouse.
What has surprised you the most over the course of your career?
Without even trying, I have developed a signature look to my work that people recognize. So, over the last 5+ years (my felting career so far), I have unknowingly created a fan base… I’ve asked various people what makes them want to collect my work, and their answers were all the same: because it makes them smile! To me, that is everything! If I can bring a smile to the faces of strangers, then my job is done.
Tell us about some of your holiday pieces.
My seasonal creations consist of hand-felted greeting cards, snowman ornaments and sculptures, penguin ornaments, curly-bearded Santa ornaments and sculptures, holiday-themed robot sculptures, and (new this season) snow monster sculptures—think Yeti or the Abominable Snow Monster from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer! Also, keep an eye out for some of my wildlife sculptures wearing little sweaters!
Where can people find your work?
Craft lovers can visit any of the following shops where my work—along with the work of many other amazing artists—is represented: Alberta Craft Council, Alberta Branded (Alberta Legislature), TIX on the Square, Art Gallery of St. Albert, and Elk Island National Park.
