We recently connected with A’Kaila Willis and have shared our conversation below.

Hi A’Kaila, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

From the start I’ve felt connected to every piece I’ve created, both personally and professionally. However this newest collection, gardening season is a bit closer to my heart.

gardening season is a physical representation of the seeds God asks us to plant as we share the truth of the gospel. From its inception to its fruition, this collection has connected me with so many likeminded and beautiful souls. I’m excited to keep expanding this collection to wall pieces, coasters, rugs and more.

My prayer is that as these pieces enter their new homes, the light and love they were created with is felt.

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

For those who don’t know, I didn’t start out with textile arts. My introduction to art and creativity was through dance. I started with praise dance at church then went on to perform competitively in drill team before attending a performing arts school for dance. I graduated with my B.A. in Dance and went on to get my Dance Teaching credential as well.

As near as dance is to my heart, I’ve always made sure to nurture my other arts as well; from painting and jewelry-making to singing and acting. It was during Covid that I was introduced to rug-making which completely took a life of its own. I began with punch-needling and tufting, then fine tuned my skills creating coasters, purses, blankets, and wall art.

When I look back on where I started, I’m most proud of how all of my passions show up through my art. Within the design of the pieces, you can nearly see the fibers dancing together to create an overarching piece.

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

For me what I find most rewarding is being surrounded by other artists and creatives. In the past year I’ve begun to regularly sell my products both online and in-person at street fairs and pop-up shops. I draw constant inspiration and encouragement from the colorful fearlessness I’m surrounded by. There’s a constant give and take within the arts community that I appreciate so much. I’m constantly learning and having the opportunity to share as well.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

When the idea for honeyrug first came up, I’d already convinced myself that I couldn’t have a website or social media presence until I had customers or an audience that desired to see my creations. When I look back, I can see why I held that perspective, but it’s just not true. For anyone reading this who might share those same fears and apprehensions, believe me.. YOU are enough. YOUR creativity is enough. Show the world who YOU are. The world will never have anything to support if you don’t put it out there. I had to learn not to be afraid to go on the journey. To share the process so everyone could see where I started and grow with me. The moment I stopped letting fear block what I shared with the world was the moment things changed for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shophoneyrug.com
• Instagram: honeyrug
• Tiktok: akailaaaaa

Image Credits
Maya Umemoto Gorman