*By Lisa Caron Hickey — as told to Green Mountain Guide*
I've always believed that everyone has a creative side. Sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement, a few supplies, and someone willing to say, "Give it a try!"
Creativity has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I've always loved making things, experimenting with materials, and discovering what happens when you combine colors, textures, and ideas in unexpected ways. That curiosity has taken me in many directions over the years, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
I founded Caron Designs in Connecticut in 1989. What began as a way to pursue my love of art grew into a creative business that has evolved alongside me for more than three decades. Nearly three years ago, my husband and I moved to Windham, Vermont, and I brought Caron Designs with me.
Over the years, I've explored painting, mixed media, collage, jewelry making, fiber arts, and a variety of other techniques. My artwork has been exhibited in galleries throughout the United States, which I'm proud of, but I've never wanted to limit myself to one medium or one style.
I'm happiest when I'm experimenting. I might spend one day on a painting, another making a piece of jewelry, and the next surrounded by wool, fabric, and paper, wondering what I can make with them.
I still make jewelry, mostly one-of-a-kind pieces. It isn't in my online shop, but visitors can see it at the studio.
For me, that's part of the joy of being an artist. There's always something new to learn.
The Joy of Sharing Creativity
One of the most rewarding parts of my creative journey has been teaching others. I've taught workshops for adults and children, including Brownie and Girl Scout troops, women's clubs, and community groups. I've worked with people who have been making art their entire lives and others who haven't picked up a paintbrush since elementary school.
Some of my favorite moments happen when someone walks into a workshop and announces, "I'm not creative." I always smile, because I know there's a good chance they'll surprise themselves.
At one pottery workshop, someone looked at the large skunk cabbage leaf on the table and asked, "What are we doing with this?" By the end of the session, that leaf had become a platter. The whole group couldn't wait to see how theirs turned out, and some of them still use and treasure those platters today.
There's something wonderful about watching someone discover they can make something with their own hands. Their confidence grows, they start experimenting, and suddenly they're adding their own ideas to the project.
That moment when someone looks at what they've created and says, "I made this!" never gets old. I think we sometimes forget how important it is to simply make things. We're surrounded by screens, schedules, and endless distractions. Sitting down to paint, stitch, felt, or create gives us permission to slow down.
And it doesn't have to be perfect. Some of the most interesting things happen when a project doesn't turn out exactly as planned.
From Artwork to Creative Experiences
As Caron Designs evolved, I began developing craft kits so people could enjoy creating at home. I love the idea of opening a small package and finding everything needed to make something beautiful or fun. No searching for supplies, no complicated preparation, just a chance to sit down and create.
My kits include painting, felting, fiber, and other nature-inspired projects, with instructions designed to be approachable even for beginners. My favorites include painted pouches, felted acorns, ornaments, and garlands. They use simple materials and techniques, but every person brings something different to the finished piece.
I especially enjoy projects that families can work on together. A child and a grandparent might start with the same materials and end up with two completely different creations. That's exactly how it should be. The experience of making something is just as important as the finished piece.
Finding Inspiration in Vermont
Nearly three years ago, my husband and I moved to Windham, Vermont. Living here has given my creative life a different rhythm. Vermont encourages you to notice the little things: the changing colors of the trees, the textures of the woods, the shapes of leaves and branches, and the quiet beauty of each season.
My studio is above our detached two-car garage, and it's become my favorite place to experiment, try new ideas, and sometimes make a wonderful mess. Like many artists, I usually have several projects going at once: works in progress, interesting materials waiting to be used, and a few ideas I haven't quite figured out yet. That's just how I like it.
I've also enjoyed becoming part of Vermont's creative community, meeting other artists, taking part in local art activities, and teaching workshops. What I appreciate most is how willing people here are to share their knowledge, support one another, and celebrate handmade work.
Creativity Is for Everyone
After more than 30 years of making and teaching art, I still get excited about trying something new. I like to tell people, you don't need special talent, expensive materials, or years of training to enjoy being creative. You need curiosity and a willingness to begin. That belief is at the heart of Caron Designs.
As I look toward the next chapter of my creative life here in Vermont, I'm excited to keep exploring, developing new projects, and finding ways to bring people together through art. My Windham studio is open during scheduled workshops and by appointment, and I'd love for you to stop by.
Sometimes the best place to start is simply by making something.
---
*Lisa Caron Hickey is a visual artist, teaching artist, and founder of Caron Designs. She lives and creates in Windham, Vermont. Her craft kits are available at carondesigns.com and on Etsy, and her one-of-a-kind jewelry can be seen at her studio.*
*Find her on the Guide: Lisa Caron Hickey, Windham*