We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lynn Weinberg. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lynn below.

Lynn, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

As early as I can remember I was destined to make things. I even have a picture of me lacing sewing cards at 4 which shows that my interest in textiles goes way back. Then I became fascinated with drawing and painting and my parents encouraged my creative pursuits. I was introduced to sewing in middle school and my love of fashion and creating my personal wardrobe began. I also had an entrepreneurial side develop in high school selling jewelry to other students. I pursued painting and

textile design in college and it all came together shortly after when I started my hand painted clothing collection called Silkscapes, combining my love of painting and fashion.

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

After college I started my career as a fiber artist – weaving, spinning, felt making, sewing and hand painting fabrics for sculptural fiber art and art to wear. In 1978, while living in Washington D.C., I crossed paths with another fiber artist and SILKSCAPES INC. was born. We created hand painted silk clothing and accessories and began wholesaling our products to local boutiques. Fate intervened shortly thereafter, and we found ourselves separated by half the globe. My husband’s career as an infectious disease doctor brought us to the Philippines for 2 years where I located a batik factory and taught the local artisans our hand painting techniques.

We created a collection widely recognized for its artistry, whimsy and enduring high quality. The production process was unique, and like a couture operation, each piece was made to order. In 1984 I moved to Atlanta and my partner ended up in Boston. Over the next 2 decades we had to reinvent our company and change with the times – but our corporate vision of ‘Art for the Body and Soul’ remained steadfast throughout. With partners in 2 cities, silk imported from Hong Kong, dyes from France and production in the Philippines, we made use of the word global long before the internet was invented. Before it was chic, we always operated from home offices trying to balance work and family. We sold our creations to major stores such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstroms, Saks Fifth Avenue and I appeared on QVC. We were even asked to create wardrobe items for The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and The Golden Girls TV shows.

In 2000 my partner retired and I continued the business under the LRW DESIGNS label. Production remained overseas until the end of 2012. Throughout these years my husband and I raised 2 wonderful children, who are entrepreneurs, and we are thrilled to also have 4 grandchildren, who we love to spend time with. In 2013 I decided to return to my roots as a crafter and go back to creating one of a kind textile creations. The pursuit of unique design and high quality craftsmanship is still a number one priority. I strive to make each piece of merchandise a joy to own. My collection is made mostly from my hand painted fabrics from my 35 years designing clothing. I upcycle them as well as men’s ties, shirts and sari fabrics that I receive from another designer. My collection is not only a way to express yourself, but it can positively impact the environment.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I’ve had to pivot several times in both my career and personal life and that skill is crucial for success in both areas. Since I’ve been doing this for 44 years there have been many changes, especially in technology, fashion trends and my personal life. I’ve always tried to balance career and family, so dealing with several moves early on due to my husband’s career and starting a family were challenging, but I was able to adapt. In business there was the objective to keep up with fashion trends and stay relevant for each decade. I’ve had to reevaluate and figure out how to change with the times. I realized these aspirations only through inspiration and perseverance. Technology brought great helpful advantages, but the internet also changed the way people shopped. I had to learn many new skills and pivot the way I marketed. All of these obstacles made me grow as a person in both my personal and professional life. I am proud to have just celebrated my 50th wedding anniversary and to still be creating items that people are excited to purchase.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Creating is a crucial part of my life, not just in my career but in my personal life as well. I try to bring an artistic flair to everything, including my home, garden and fashion. I love creating new things and bringing joy to people. I receive so many comments on how my items make people happy and that is very rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lrwdesigns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silkscapeslrwdesigns/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LrwDesigns.Silkscapes/
• Other: Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/slrwdesigns/