Today we’d like to introduce you to Karra Wade.
Karra, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
At a young age, I made my own clothes and bags. Eventually, they caught the eyes of my friends and neighbors who started to offer to buy some of my designs. I always knew I enjoyed creating things but had no idea how exciting it would be to see other people enjoying them.
In 2002, I opened up an Etsy store with the hope it would take off and lead me to another goal of mine… owning my own boutique. And it failed! I was 17 and had no idea what I was doing as a business owner. I decided to go to college and focus on getting a fashion retail degree. I ended up putting my small business on hold so I could learn how to run a small business. When I graduated, I got all caught up in doing “adult things” like working in other retail stores and never really went back to my shop.
Two years ago, I made a pair of earrings for myself and wore them to one of my jobs. A customer loved them and I sold her a pair right there. It reminded me of how I really enjoyed making things and how much I loved seeing other people in my designs.
So, I got home, decided to put my business degree to use and set up a website. I connected it to my blog so I could give my customers a chance to get to know the woman behind the business, Feather + Arrow. Since that day, I’ve had my online shop where I sell hand painted candles, clothing, and jewelry that I design along with some pieces my friends and other artists create. I use my degree and my experience with other boutique shops to run my shop and Instagram which I am truly proud of. I love being able to create each day. I’ve never been happier and I’m so glad I took that leap!
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I make jewelry and customize clothing and candles. I love injecting something special and fun into people’s lives. My hope is that everyone buying something from me will know it was created or selected with them in mind. It gives them joy when they see it or wear it.
Everything I personally create for my shop is unique. It can take me a week or two to create a custom piece, especially the candles. I take my time because I want each piece to have its own narrative, a story that my customers can touch and feel, and add to their own. Each piece is a journey. The other items I sell are handpicked by me, because they’re things I love and want others to love, too. I see something and think I just have to have it and I want everyone to feel that when they see my shop.
When I’m making jewelry, I hand pick the stones, gems, and beads from local and independent sources. Then, I lock myself away in my office and create a piece or two. I have a personal rule that I won’t make duplicate pieces but when something is a big hit with my customers, like my carved bone earrings, I break that rule. It’s much easier to stick to it when I’m creating my candles. They’re hand painted and can take me hours to complete because the design is so intricate. It’s almost impossible for me to recreate a specific pattern even if I tried. Because the artwork takes so long it really gives me a chance to become immersed in the process. I always hope that whoever purchases one of my candles, appreciates the work that goes into them, when they bring it into their personal space.
Shopping at Feather + Arrow is like shopping with your best globe-hopping friend, who just happens to share her closet with you.
What do you think it takes to be successful as an artist?
I think the biggest challenge facing artists now is being heard. There’s so many voices and artists out there, which is great, but it can make it hard to be seen. You have to get out there, find your own lane and grind in it. Amazing artists that are dedicated to their “thing” eventually get seen and make their way.
I also think that because there are so many artists, that there’s bound to be someone doing something similar to what you’re doing. It can be a little disheartening but staying the course and pushing your way through only clarifies your voice and makes what you do stronger and more unique.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
If you’re looking to support me, you can find me on my website or on my Instagram. During the Summer, I participate in pop-ups and independent markets around Houston and I announce when I’ll be there via my social media.
I really think the best way to support local artists and business owners is by buying something! I know that sounds super obvious but it’s true. If you see something you like, show some love. I also think it’s very important to share your favorite local loves. Let your friends and family know when you see something you like. There are so many hidden gems in around Houston, and a lot of them get known by word of mouth. I know a lot of my favorite places and people were recommended by others and I always try to pass that along. I think lots of people think that the only way to share support, is to purchase something, but just sharing something that catches your eye helps to expose an artist to a larger audience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://featherandarrow.net
- Email: info@featherandarrow.net
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/featherandarrow
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/featherandarrow
Image Credit:
Picture of myself: Tiffany Malone of Tiffany Malone Photography, Product photos: Gillean Wade of Gillean J Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
