Heather C. Morrow

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I’m rooted in Altadena, and after losing my home and studio to the Eaton Fire, my focus shifted entirely to documenting what remained. In July, I premiered my photo exhibit “Bearing Witness: Fragments of Humanity” at the Artists and Makers Gallery in San Gabriel.

On January 7, I left with my dogs and my cameras (just because their might be the opportunity for taking photos).  I never imagined I wouldn’t be returning home.

I believe art holds the power to heal. Surrounding ourselves with beauty can ground us, even in chaos.

Whether I’ll return to ceramics is still uncertain. For now, I’m leaning into photography—capturing moments that help me process, connect, and offer something restorative to my community.

We are so grateful to be able to watch your journey & dive back into your photography as you continue on this path. How did you get your start? My creative path began in the 1970s with a Kodak Instamax and the vibrant energy of Yokosuka, Japan’s festivals dancing through my lens. Watching my parents shoot with their Nikons, I was hooked early—soon becoming the unofficial photographer for high school plays, developing black-and-white film in a makeshift darkroom with my dad.

Over the years, my artistic spirit found new outlets: oil painting, then ceramics, which led me to convert my Altadena garage into a working studio. I sold my pieces at local shows, galleries, and online, always keeping a camera close. Though I embraced digital photography in its early days, it was the pandemic—and the ethereal pull of infrared—that truly reignited my passion.

Inspired by African photographer Piper McKay, I saw a new fusion: photography transferred onto ceramics. I dove into infrared, converted a Nikon mirrorless, and haven’t looked back. Today, I’m constantly exploring, crafting images that speak not just to the eye, but to the soul.

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? One of the trickiest parts of the creative process is not catching my mistakes in the moment I’m taking the photo. An instructor once told me, “Always check all four corners”—wise advice, but it’s just the beginning. There’s so much more to consider:  light, composition, focus, emotion, intention. It’s easy to get swept up in the scene and miss the subtle details that make or break the shot.

What is your favorite piece that you have created and why? The Golden Tree remains my favorite photograph to date. I captured it in Yosemite during the fall of 2023, surrounded by fellow photographers carefully setting up their tripods. While they prepared, I instinctively moved closer—just me and my handheld camera. At that perfect moment, the sun crested over the granite walls, slicing through the low-hanging fog. Through my lens, the leaves shimmered like golden jewels. I knew instantly I had caught something rare and magical. When printed on metal, the image doesn’t just shine—it radiates.

What do you love most about Pasadena? When I first arrived in Los Angeles over 30 years ago, Colorado Blvd in Pasadena quickly became my favorite haunt—filled with shops, theaters, and that unmistakable charm. I used to wander its sidewalks, catching movies and daydreaming about living nearby someday. Despite being part of the sprawling Los Angeles county, it had a small-town feel that felt personal and inviting. The community’s eclectic spirit and deep love for the arts—from the Pasadena Playhouse to vibrant Art Walks—made it feel like home long before it was.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? I have explored many art forms including painting intricate Ukrainian Easter eggs with wax and dye.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I’m holding onto the hope that I’ll be back in my rebuilt Altadena home well before five years pass. In the meantime, I’m pouring my energy into photography—building it not just as a passion, but as a meaningful business. My goal is for it to become a steady source of income by the time I retire from my day job, and more importantly, a creative legacy rooted in resilience and beauty.

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
Starting out as an artist means embracing the scrappy, messy, trial-and-error phase. You have to be willing to stumble—often—and keep going anyway. Not everyone will connect with your work, and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean they’re rejecting you personally. Because art comes from such a vulnerable place, it’s easy to blur the line between self and creation.

 You are your own best advocate—your publicist, marketer, and storyteller. Sure, you can bring in help, but ultimately, it’s your voice, your vision, and your authenticity that people are investing in. And it’s the relationships you build—genuine, lasting ones—that will carry you through the highs and lows of your creative journey.

Anything special that you would like to share? I’m currently working on a deeply personal photography project titled From the Ashes, capturing portraits of individuals who’ve lost their homes—alongside something meaningful they’ve managed to recover. This series will continue through the fall and likely into early next year, and I’m actively seeking participants who are open to sharing their stories. If you or someone you know would like to be involved, please reach out to me at hcmorrow@gmail.com. These stories matter, and I’d be honored to help preserve it through art.

We are so ecstatic to see the community come together this fall!

Find Heather C. Morrow Photography at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: www.heathercmorrowphotography.com

Instagram: @ascapturedbyheather

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?  

Originally in the deep south, beneath the poverty line; I've relocated to Los Angeles in 2017. My roots ingrained in me my work ethic, and the know how to get extremely creative with very, very little. Being in LA, being surrounded by so many diverse perspectives and creative people has inspired me immensely. When people are allowed to settle their roots in land where they can live as authentically themselves as possible, beautiful things can bloom.

Love that. Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

My style fluctuates across materials and crafts, I would say my largest influences are my own audience and current events. Largely, right now I want to do what I can to lift spirits and voices that need to be heard. I love telling stories, so by extension I love reading, I could point to narratives across a spectrum from Kentaro Miura to Tamsyn Muir as inspirational. I equally adore deep think pieces and brightly colored graphic novels; I truly believe there fewer limits around what stories different media can tell than some may think.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Right now, by far, it is having extremely limited resources. I am in the extremely fortunate position of being able to focus on art full time, at the unfortunate cost of this being the result of an incredibly sudden job loss in February of this year. I have no end of ideas, but there are only so many hours and only so far one can stretch a yard. 

Moth Wing Jacket

What’s your favorite item that you have created, and why?

I may be biased based off of the fact I just finished it yesterday, but this moth wing jacket has my heart at the moment

It is so beautiful! What do you love most about Minneapolis or Minnesota in general?

So, I have travelled already more in my life than I ever expected to be able to, and I have still not ever made it out to Minneapolis nor Minnesota. This trip will be my very first impression, and I am excited to explore the city.

Fun! What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? 

I am a rather avid LARPer (not boffer, I do not have the stamina and wherewithal for that) if you ask me about it, I will happily talk your ear off about it. Yes, I promise there is a game you'd enjoy, yes you the person reading this thinking no. I remain a firm believer adults deserve more whimsy and opportunity to fully engage their imaginations. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

If I can strike some incredible luck, and work extremely hard, I would love to see myself successful enough to have brought on one or two people to help me. This festival is my first venture into pursuing art full time, so you can bet I'm working hard to try to bring you all things you will enjoy; to try to earn my way into momentum towards future festivals.

You have the day off, what do you do? 

Oh...absolutely cuddle my three (cat) children. They wouldn't let me leave even if I wanted to; if you visit my booth I will absolutely show you pictures of them for free because everyone deserves to enjoy them.

Anything special you’d like to share? 

 I am currently fundraising for this event, and would appreciate any support:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-nolan-trans-artists-journey

Find Just A Little Guy at the Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival on August 9th & 10th.

Jackie, owner of Kabouter Creative

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?  
I am from Saint Paul, MN and have always lived in the Twin Cities. When I first started this business it took me a while to find my footing and to find what would make me stand out in the crowd. The key to my success ended up being Minnesota themed patches, I started with 6 and the collection has just grown and grown from there. I love where I'm from and believe that it shows in my work.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?
For the Minnesota patches specifically I'm always starting with a landmark or famously "Minnesotan" thing and then playing with it to add another layer to the design whether that be a pop culture reference or some of our more well know phrases like "You Betcha" or "Uff Da"

What is the hardest part of your creation process?
I often joke that I am too creative for my own good. Whether that is just being really ambitious with the scale or complexity of a project or just having endless ideas and only a tiny amount of time and two hands to make them happen.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

This is a tough one!!! For the Minnesota designs, I'd have to say Hot (dish) To Go is my favorite. I had been wanting to do a hot dish for a while and when Chappell Roan's Hot to Go hit, so did the inspiration for the patch! The design is just so fun and came out even better than I imagined, tater tot-esque font and all.

Love that, very clever! What do you love most about living in Minnesota?

I just love the energy here, we are home to so many amazing artists and the kindest people. I cannot think of another place I'd ever want to live. 

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? 
Once upon a time, I went to culinary school- it was an amazing experience but not the right career path for me in the end.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 
I would love to be doing Kabouter Creative full time, but more than anything I just hope that I'm still creating things and making things I love.

Tell us, you have the day off, what do you do? 
Probably start an overly ambitious project or cruise some thrift stores in search of trinkets and treasures.

Find Kabouter Creative at the Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival on August 9th & 10th.

Website: https://www.kaboutercreative.com

Instagram: @kaboutercreative

Lula Flores

Where are you from and how does that affect your work? 
I was born and raised in Chile and have been living in LA for most of my adult life. The myriad of cultures I’ve been exposed to and experienced have greatly influenced my artistic style and work.

What inspires you to create?
I draw upon my own life experiences for inspiration. Art has its own language and I express myself best through this medium. Whether I’m feeling sadness or anger, happiness or gratitude, or anything in between, my works depict a genuine and honest reflection of my inner self.

How do you define success as an artist?
The greatest sense of accomplishment I get is when I sign my name on the bottom of a newly finished creation. This means that I have succeeded in taking a mere idea in my head, taken it through all the trials and tribulations in physical form, and finally blessed it with the stamp of approval that signifies that this specific artistic journey has come to a glorious end. 

What is the hardest part of your creation process?
For me it’s finding true inspiration from my heart and soul. People might think artists and creatives in any field have a constant blooming field of ideas to pluck from, but that’s far from the truth. I don’t like to create out of necessity, but rather from a place of sincerity.

What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why? I'm very proud of this new "Journal Series" I've created.

Not only does this journal make my art more accessible to the masses, but people can easily carry and interact with it on a daily basis and make it their own.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? 
I love to listen to great music and dance around while I paint! I usually work on several different pieces at once and find myself dancing from one to the next... usually when no one else is around! Lol! 

Love that! Find Lula Flores at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena.

Website: www.lulaflores.com

Instagram: @lulafloresart

Family Business! Founders (Tiffany, her mom and sister)

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  
I am originally from Shenzhen, China, and immigrated to the U.S. when I was 13 years old. My cultural background plays a big role in my designs, as I love incorporating elements of my Chinese heritage into our products. For the past three years, we’ve created a Lunar New Year collection, as well as an Asian food and fruit collection, both of which are inspired by my childhood memories, traditional symbols, and the vibrant colors of Chinese culture. Blending these influences allows me to create pieces that feel both nostalgic and fresh, celebrating the joy and playfulness of my heritage.

That is very cool and unique to you. Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?
My biggest artistic influence is Hayao Miyazaki. I grew up watching his films and have always been deeply inspired by his whimsical art style, rich storytelling, and the sense of wonder he creates in his worlds. I strive to bring that same sense of playfulness and magic into my own designs

What is the hardest part of your creation process?
The hardest part of my creation process is the design and prototyping phase. I usually start by sketching out ideas before turning them into digital illustrations, but I also have to consider how they will translate into physical product. This includes choosing the right colors, figuring out the best way to cut the acrylic, and ensuring the design is both visually appealing and functional. Each collection goes through multiple rounds of prototyping to perfect the colors, shapes, and overall look. Once this phase is complete, the rest of the process flows much more smoothly.

There is a lot of behind the scenes involved. What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why?
My favorite item we’ve created is definitely our animal portrait magnets and brooches. I’ve always loved the charm of vintage cottage-style gallery walls and wanted to bring that idea to life with my own designs. That’s how the Sunnie Farm collection was born—I imagined a whimsical farm where these animals live, each with their own unique personality. I designed their portraits as if they were meant to be hung in a cozy farmhouse, adding a playful and nostalgic touch to our collection.

What do you love most about Pasadena?
Pasadena has such a unique charm—its diverse community and rich artistic culture make it an inspiring place to be. The city is home to incredible art spaces like the Norton Simon Museum and the Huntington Library, and it hosts amazing yearly art events that bring creatives together. It’s a wonderful place for artists to share their work and for people to find inspiration.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? 
In university, all my art classes were from 7-10 PM, so I naturally became a night owl when it comes to creating. Even now, I do my best design work late at night—it’s when I feel the most inspired and focused.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 
In five years, I hope to still be growing Sunnie Creative, expanding the business in a way that allows me to reach more people while also giving me more time for myself and my family. 

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?  
My biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out is to strongly consider doing in-person events. They're an amazing way to test your products in real life, get immediate feedback, and really start building your brand's presence.

Love that. Anything special you’d like to share? 
We release a new collection every 1-2 months, and we’re always excited to share more fun, creative art with you! Stay tuned for fresh designs!

Find Sunnie Creative at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena.

Website: https://sunniecreative.com/

Instagram: @sunnie.creative

Armelle

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  
I was born and raised in France and after years in Germany, Switzerland and Ireland, I settled in Southern California. I speak three languages and worked as a translator and interpreter before crossing the pond to become a full time artist and muralist. 

Wow that is very impressive! Who/what are your biggest artistic influences? Giacometti and Brancusi's female bodies, Akseli Gallen-Kallela's snowy landscapes and absolutely everything by Vincent Van Gogh. I have the deepest connection to him.

What is the hardest part of your creation process? Remember that it always gets worse before it gets better.

That can be so true! What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why?
I am quite happy with the "SoCal Spirit" that I created at the start of my painting journey because I was able to pinpoint that effortless Southern California vibe that I felt when I moved here, with what was going to become my signature style.

SoCal Spirit

What do you love most about Pasadena?
The old town and the Huntington Gardens because they remind me of Europe.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect?
I am a creative cook and hate to follow a recipe! 

That takes talent! Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Visiting all the National Parks and painting everything I see.

Very fun. You have the day off, what do you do?
I sweat in a hot yoga class.

Find Armelle’s Atelier at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena.

Website: www.armellesatelier.com

Instagram: @armellesatelier

Do you have a story behind your company name?

I started my business in 2018 originally creating one of a kind merchandise for my husband, Chuck Negron, former lead singer for the band Three Dog Night, and expanded into merch for other 60’s bands.

So I called my brand Ami’s Rock N (Roll) Pop (Culture) Shop.

Very cool! How did you get started?

When the pandemic hit in 2020, my husband could no longer go out on concert tour due to his lung disease. I was his manager so that put us both out of work.

I took a virtual workshop from Martina the owner of My Creative Outlet in Chatsworth. She taught me how to make vintage style cone dolls using spun cotton heads, felt and cardboard cones. I had so much fun designing the dolls that I began looking for things I had around the house to make more. I put them in my Rock N Pop Shop on Etsy and my husband’s fans bought them up. 

Since I was looking for a way to replace our lost income, I needed to expand beyond my current market and I had the idea to upcycle lost and forgotten vintage doll heads in order to appeal to the vintage collectors on Instagram. My business blew up on Instagram live sales, and from there I moved into Youtube and eventually Whatnot. And this year I am finally able to come out into the real world to do in person markets.

Congratulations that is awesome! What is your favorite part of your maker process? 

My favorite part of the maker process is pairing bright colors and accessories to give each doll a unique personality.

What inspires you to create?

Bringing joy to others with my creations.

Tell us what a typical day is like for you in the studio? 

A typical day in the studio first involves me opening packages of new supplies, doll heads that I have curated, new fabrics for the cone bodies. Then I might prepare to make some of my original doll face designs on spun cotton by applying a base coat of paint. Then cover cones with fabric while those are drying. I do everything in batches so I have various stages of dolls in production all at once. I usually have a couple of my cats hanging out with me in my studio, and one that is always trying to steal my supplies.

Funny! What is your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

I have created thousands of art dolls in the last four years,  so it’s impossible to choose just one.

I have included pics of my original handpainted grinch, snow person and holiday bat.

What do you love most about Burbank?

What I love most about Burbank is the community of creative people. I also love the retro vibe. 

What will you be bringing to Jackalope?

I will be bringing my one of a kind holiday art dolls and ornaments. I specialize in Christmas and Halloween year round.

I hope to have some of my Kitschmas Hats and also plan to bring my popular Build a Doll Workshop to the festival where guests can choose their doll head, cone material and accessory and I create it live in person.

Find Ami’s Rock N Pop Shop at Jackalope Burbank at the Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival this December 7th & 8th:

Website: https://rocknpopshop.company.site/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockNPopShop

Instagram: @amisrocknpopshop

Tell us who you are and how you got your start?

I'm an illustrator in LA working in animation- I've probably designed that animated show you love! My favorite professional projects are Bobs Burgers and Over the Garden Wall. I wanted to branch out and start making my own brand of illustrated items and I'm loving the creative satisfaction.

I had been working designing characters and products for major companies (Disney, Cartoon Network, toy brands, Paul Frank) and I thought: I want to make my own merch! It was really empowering and creatively satisfying to make items inspired by all my favorite things. The best part is connecting with other people who want to geek out about the same stuff!

Very cool. What is your favorite part of your maker process?

I love taking a sketchbook doodle of something I think would make a fun pin design and turning it into production art and then having the physical item in hand within weeks. It's so fun to make wearable items: I think pins and patches are the funny T-shirts of today: a way to show your personality on your sleeve (or jacket, or hat, or backpack!)

What inspires you to create?

I make items that are inspired by all the things I love and think are fun: pop culture, music, scary movies, silly movies, animals, California and junk food! My art is bright, colorful and happy: I hope it makes you smile!

What’s a typical day like for you in the studio?

My full time job is art directing for a primetime animated TV series, so I make my personal art after work and on the weekends. It keeps me staying creative by constantly making stuff. The holiday season is definitely my busiest time of year as my pins and patches make great gifts!

Great stocking stuffers! What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

I have two new tote bag designs debuting at Jackalope this year- I worked with a new production partner to make these and they are so much fun! I have one with a California Love theme and one with spooky Over the Garden Wall art. You can always use a nice tote bag at a craft fair to carry all your other purchases.

Very True! What do you love most about Burbank?

I worked at Cartoon Network for many years and I dig the vibe in downtown Burbank! There's always something fun going on and a big creative community to support it. Can't wait to see you!

What all will you be bringing to Jackalope?

I have a large collection of pins and patches as well as art prints, stationary, tote bags and greeting cards. Its fun! It's bright! It's happy! It's a whole vibe!

Anything special you’d like to share?

I love being a part of the Jackalope Fair! I've done other craft fairs and I think Jackalope really shines with the assortment of vendors and the organization of the show. I'm excited to see everyone out on San Fernando Road this December.

Find Miranda Dressler Illustration at Jackalope Burbank at the Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival this December 7th & 8th:

Website: www.mirandadressler.com

Instagram: @mirandaright

Matty Miller

How did you get start?

Creativity has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a creative household, I was surrounded by artists, makers, and opportunities to express myself. My artistic business has evolved over the years, but the core themes of beauty, making, and teaching have remained constant. I believe that art is essential for enriching our lives and connecting on a deeper level.

That is so true. What inspires you to create?

 I'm inspired by the natural world and ecology... I love being in quiet, remote spaces in nature where I can look and listen with presence, and daydream. I also love to research! I love learning about native plants, regional mythology, folklore, culture, you name it...

What is a typical studio day like for you?

It's hard to say what a typical day in the studio is. I wear a lot of hats for my job so it could be anything from painting new work, sending off commission sketches, teaching private lessons, or packing orders. An ideal day in the studio starts slow with some journaling and a cup of coffee, and ends with standing back and taking in the view on a painting's progress.

What is your favorite part of being an artist?

I love finding a flow state as I paint, the feeling of being completely absorbed in the moment. I can access an ethereal and meditative state of mind, and there's a magical quality to the process of transforming ideas into tangible works of art.
I also love the personal connections I make with my clients when creating custom pieces. It's incredibly rewarding to bring their vision to life and create art that resonates with them and their values.

Do you have a favorite product that you have created and why?

My favorite works are my original paintings. Original art has a special essence to it that's transferred through the love and hours spent creating it by the artist. 
At the moment my favorite piece is called Meadow Sentinel. It captures the serene beauty of a meadow, with a graceful deer adorned with flowers and quilting patterns. It's a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and finding moments of peace in our busy livesI

Meadow Sentinel

What do you like most about Arvada?

Arvada is such a great blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. The community is super friendly and supportive of the arts. Also, Yak and Yeti is one of my favorite restaurants!

What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

At Jackalope, you'll find a selection of my original works, art prints, and a brand-new line of silk scarves. They make amazing gifts and I can't wait to share them.

Find Matty Miller Studio at Jackalope Arvada this October 5th & 6th, 2024

www.mattymiller.com

Facebook

Instagram: @mattymillerstudio

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Nathan Eigenfeld of EigenVisison

I currently live in Colorado, but am a avid road warrior. It’s a part of my process, I am on the road 5 months out of the year. Living in the mountains helps me connect with nature and feeds my process. One of my favorite artists is Mark Rothko, known for his outstanding color block images. I’ve tried to channel his style into my photography. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Success for me is making people feel- anything, it doesn’t matter - awe, inspiration, emptiness, loneliness, despair, hope, love - whatever. Color seems to simplify feelings.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

The hardest part for my creation process is the alone time. Many of these images have been created on multi-day backcountry wilderness treks while alone. That’s where I can let myself create the best and let my intuition guide me. Despite it giving me a sense of freedom, overcoming physical challenges alone in the wilderness can be daunting, and yet, it is ultimately rewarding as well.

How has your style changed over time?

My style is always evolving, but I have certainly settled into a minimalist style, emphasizing empty space. It has been fulfilling to have people identify with this.

What’s your favorite image that you’ve created, and why?

One of my favorite images I’ve created is my silhouetted image of Joshua Trees. It was at a time when I was unsure of my process and was struggling to “Be Myself” - which I’ve named the image. I shot it during a brilliant pink sunrise just off the road in Joshua Tree National Park in December of 2021. I absolutely love how the silhouette emphasizes the quirkiness of the trees, all different and disjointed in their own ways - they have no issues being themselves.

And finally, what do you love most about Pasadena?

Having attended Pasadena fair last spring, I fell in love with the energy of the downtown - a destination for such a diversity of people. Californians love their art and are not afraid to buy things on the street! Selling photos of pure wilderness in a city setting is rewarding and can even feel like a sort of ministry to me, reminding people of what’s ‘out there’ beyond the concrete and hustle and bustle. I am looking forward to this Fall’s market!

Catch EigenVision at Jackalope Pasadena on November 18th & 19th!

Website: www.nathaneigenfeld.com

Instagram: @eigenvision