Ambrosia Creative

Describe what you do as an artist.
I’m kind of a painter/designer/bookbinder/seamstress/photographer. At least those are all the things I really enjoy.

Motherhood is a full-time job and then some. What keeps you inspired and motivated to create?
The transition to motherhood was pretty difficult for me, there was so much unstructured time and jobs that have to be done and redone (like diapering, bathing, feeding, etc). I felt so depressed, like I wasn’t really contributing. As soon as I got back into my interests and included those interests in motherhood I felt more complete and happy. Creativity is meant to be shared and I’ve had a lot of fun creating things for my little girl.

I’ve learned that being a stay-at-home mom and business owner/artist does not have to be mutually exclusive. How do you maintain a balance between the two?
I’m not sure that I create a balance at all between the two, but I do make sure that I get enough creative time that I feel productive, but also make sure that my little girl is happy and is cared for. Which pretty much means that I do all of my work when the little babe is asleep or the husband is home.

As an artist, what do you hope to pass on to your children?
I hope that Penelope learns to be creative and pursue the things that she loves most. I always saw my mom making things and going to great lengths to make us feel special, I hope she can glean those same things from me.

Does your child possess any special talents?
Penelope is a dancer and has been from the get go. Since day one she’s rolled her ankles and pointed her toes. Now that she’s a little older (12 months) she does shoulder shrugs, chest bumps and hip thrusts all to the beat of music. It’s absolutely adorable.

And lastly, what do you wish for this mother’s day?
I told Chris I don’t want anything for mother’s day besides a card and him in the kitchen. However, I also secretly want a temple print by Cameron Moll . ;)

Melissa, thank you!