Ground with Both My Families
I started selling on Etsy when friends wanted pieces and prints of my art. I had a hard time letting go of originals at first --they felt too personal. Then I realized that's the special thing about my art: it is personal!
Whenever I go a couple of days without making art, I notice I feel anxious and disconnected. I settle myself by putting me and my ya-ya's on paper. Some people get that through exercise, religion, or wine. I find that “ahhh” place when journaling. I breathe differently and I feel all right with the world.
RubyShea -- What's with the name?
The name RubyShea comes from my true loves: my blood family and my chosen family.
Ruby is the "blood". Born and raised in Texas, my Gramma Ruby grew the smallest, sweetest strawberries you ever tasted. She loved the Methodist church and her family -- her two sons, their wives, six grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. "Ruby" stands for my blood family, who, even though they're in the Midwest, they're with me every day. I know I could not be here without them and the messy, real history they ground me in.
Shea is for my "chosen" family -- Scott Shea, my husband in this 13-year, bi-coastal, respectful marriage and our wily, sport-driven 9 year-old son (who, had he been a girl, he would've been named "Ruby"!). This family also includes my friends -- my gorgeous, invaluable Yemma and Tribe sisters who keep me on this earth.
