March 1, 2008
Interview with Az Carmen
Tell us about yourself?
I am enrolled Chickasaw but family is Chickasaw/Choctaw. When I was young I had a lot of freedom. As a result, I enjoy making decisions and like to create my environment.
What is your passion(s) in life?
My family is first, then my community. Oh and of course…creating beautiful things.
Tell us about your company and when you opened shop?
The name of my company is Azcarmen Contemporary Native American Art. I opened shop around three years ago but have been creating art for a much longer time frame.
You are family owned and operated, do you work alone or do you have family members who help?
Painting is singular. Marketing is plural. My family, especially my sweet husband, helps me whenever I ask.
You are from down south, does there area your from influence what you draw?
Actually yes, we sort of accept things that go bump in the night as normal. When I woke up one day and realized I could paint and draw, I didn’t question it I just went with it. It was like, “Oh, cool. Wonder how that happened?”
Tell us about your Boarding School Dolls?
The Boarding School Dolls are a tribute to my grandmother, mother, and aunties. They are little dolls that are hand sewn and can be put in a child’s pocket to remind them of home.
Your work is now in galleries, which ones?
Linda and Michael Photography and Gallery
751 NW 1st St
Newport, OR 97365
541-574-0455
In Historic Nye Beach
www.1stcliffgallery.com
What’s you comment on imported products labeled Indian made?
Oh don’t get me started on that issue! The American Indian Arts and Crafts Law is in place for a reason. As indigenous artists, we need to have protection from unscrupulous folks who want appropriate our art. I say the law should have penalties that are enforced.
Is the internet working for you and how are sales?
I am just beginning to work with the internet. Having a blog listed on Indian Country Today helps get my pictures in front of folks. I wonder if I should list the prices.
Tell us about your daily blog and where do we find it?
New to blogging. I have always enjoyed reading blogs but didn’t start one until just lately. The address is: www.azcarmenindianart.blogspot.com
What was your first job?
I worked as a delivery girl for a flower shop. Unfortunately, I was only 14, didn’t have a driver’s license, and didn’t completely know how to drive. The woman handed me the keys and said to deliver three arrangements. So I did. Talk about on the job training.
What hobbies and interests do you have?
I love to paint and make things. I make cards, dolls, masks, and various and sundry weird stuff when I am not painting.
Who is your favorite artist of all time?
Hmmm. I love all art. Too many flavors to choose just one.
Who were your mentors while you were growing up?
As an Indian kid, there weren’t a lot of mentors available to me. If I think of mentors now it would be my doctoral adviser.
Who do you look to for inspiration?
The sky, the grass, light, animals, other Indian folks…everything.
Any advice for our Entrepreneur’s who are running an online business?
Yes, be sure and market, market, market your work. Learn new things and find others who have more experience who will share what they know. Then try things that are out of the box. Pray!
By Larry Knudsen
