Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Hallie Driscoll. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hallie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

I recently completed a series of mixed media pieces called NIGHT SKY. Each piece was an embroidery hoop featuring painted canvas, embroidery and beadwork. The full series consisted of 6 hoops in a variety of sizes and was presented across six painted wood panels with lights. It was the most involved project I have finished to date and meant learning how to use power tools.

I have always been drawn to the stars. I spent the first ten years of my life in New Jersey, where light pollution prevented me from just looking up and seeing the constellations. So my mom used to wake me up in the middle of the night and drive to observatories so we could watch comets and meteor showers. Creating this project felt like bringing the stars down to Earth.

For the final installation, the panels were arranged in a way that you could stand in the middle and feel like you were being surrounded by the cosmos.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started embroidery as a coping technique for anxiety about five years ago. I needed something to do with my hands to help my mind from racing 24/7. I had no expectations of turning it into a business, but I was posting my finished pieces (little things like succulents) on my instagram and people kept asking if they could buy them, so with help of some friends, I booked a spot at a local makers market and the rest was history. Overtime I’ve expanded on my practice to include a more fine art approach to some of what I make – incorporating paint, beadwork and more.The abstract, more elaborate pieces are how I channel my bigger emotions – whether that’s stress, frustration or joy.But I balance that with fun pop culture pieces and seasonal hoops. I also offer commissions and illustrations. I even started creating my own embroidery kits and partnering with local businesses to host workshops.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My daughter, Remy. I want to provide a life for her that is safe and fulfilling and includes me being around for both the big and little things. As a single parent, I spent the first few years of her life working long hours and not getting to spend a lot of time with her. And when I was home I was so anxious all the time that I probably wasn’t much fun to be around.

When I found embroidery, it was like a veil lifted. I found a way to channel my anxiety that also helped provide some financial freedom to be able to better support myself and her.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I love being able to talk about how I got started. My anxiety was debilitating until I found embroidery. Getting to explain to people that my work comes from a place of overcoming is really empowering. And I think that message has been helpful to others going through the same thing I did too.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theblankspacecollection.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/theblankspacecollection
• Other: I also have a personal art website and IG where I share my work: www.halliedriscoll.com instagram.com/hallie_driscoll