A note about the Artist Spotlight Series
Each month, I’ll spotlight one artist whose work I admire. Below, you’ll find an interview with the artist and links for purchasing their pieces. This is a commission-free endorsement. The intention of this showcase is to make good, custom, and fine art more accessible to the consumer.

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I just really got lucky. Teggy French found my artwork on Instagram and my following and commissions just exploded. 
With a learning disability, I’ve had to work extra hard for everything my whole life. I lucked out. It feels surreal.

This month, Alyssa celebrates her one year business anniversary at Willa Heart. I’m amazed by what she’s accomplished in just a year. Her success is a testament to her talent and hard work. But, with her modesty on full display, she’ll tell you a different story. 

I just really got lucky. Teggy French found my artwork on Instagram and my following and commissions just exploded. I’ve had to work extra hard for everything my whole life, with a learning disability. I lucked out. It feels surreal.

Of course, she’s discrediting the quality of the work. Sure, an Instagram following can explode overnight. But only if the work is actually good. Her work is beyond just good. It’s a modern take on baroque that is both playful and stern. I am enamored and enchanted. 

For the interview this month, I took a cue from her work and swayed the questions toward the humorous. I also kept this interview pretty short. I know you’re going to be busy looking at her work. If at any point, you find yourself yearning for her designs, click the photos. They’ll link you to her shop, where you’ll find treasures from $5 (you read that correctly. FIVE DOLLARS). 

Q: Who / what is your biggest artistic influence?
A:I am a super visual person so everything I see influences me. I love looking at interior design books and auction catalogs from the 60’s & 70’s. I love watching old movies and I love checking out contemporary artist on instagram.

Q: If you could spend one day with a high profile figure, who would it be? Where would you take them?
A: Kris Jenner, that lady has a wealth of knowledge and I am trying to find it all out. I would love to pick her brain and eat a nice big salad with her. I think it would be fun to just hang out at her place. I am a homebody.

Q: What’s your favorite book / author / movie? 
A: Book/ Author is anything by David Sedaris or White Girl Problems which is actually laugh out loud funny. Movie is hard because I love movies so much but Austin Powers always makes me laugh.

Q: Favorite color?
A: That is easy, PINK!!!

Q: Dress or Pantsuit?
A. Dress. I love getting all dressed up. If anyone mentions an event around me I instantly plan the outfit and buy a dress. 

Q: Heels or flats?
A: I used to be all heels all the time but then I broke my foot and have been scared of them… I keep saying 2018 is the year I get back into heels. Either way, dress shoes all day everyday! 

Q: Cats or dogs?
A: This is a hard one. I mean I love my dog like so much. She is my best friend, Shout out to Viper Sashay! But I was a cat person growing up. I like that they are aloof. I am into the chase. 

Q: Stained wood or polished steel?
A: Stained wood. I am not into polished steel but if it was stained wood of brass I would have picked brass. 

Q:  What’s your favorite vacation spot?
A: Palm Springs or Hawaii.

Q: What’s your goal for the next year in business? How can we help you achieve it?
A: I have so many goals but the biggest one is to keep the momentum going and to grow my business…

The Willa Heart Shop is live with products you’re going to love. Alyssa also takes commissions. Visit willaheart.com or email xoxo@willaheart.com to discuss a custom piece. Also, follow her on Instagram. She has the best IG stories I’ve seen!

xoxo
Teri