We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Varada Sharma a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Varada, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?
I have been an Information Technology worker for over 2 decades. I have worked in all phases of the lifecycle of software. It has taught me essential skills from Project Management to Testing. I am also very comfortable using technology. As I often like to say, these toys love me ;-)
The knowledge and steps required to take an idea from concept to creation are the same whether it is in a complex piece of software or a gorgeous line of artwork. All of my experiences in my day jobs always help me in my creative career.
Varada, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I have always been crafty (in a non-mean way). I think I get it from my Mom. I grew up seeing her create everything from dolls to quilts and everything in between. Through school and college I used all opportunities to learn different crafting techniques and in the later years did dabble in a few myself. I made jewelry and home decor projects.
It was in 2014 that I discovered paper crafting/card making and it had me hooked. I fell in love with creating a small piece of pretty and making someone smile with that. Never looked back.
Crafting supplies have always been somewhat expensive and 2020 added many twists with shipping delays, availability issues, and of course affordability. I decided to do something to help my fellow crafters continue their passion against all these odds. That’s why I started offering digital stamps and cut files on my blog – VaradaSharma.com as well as on Etsy.
2022 added many personal challenges for me including recurring health issues and it led me to journaling. Now I am working on offering pretty printable planner journals and other goodies in my stores. Lots of exciting things coming up. :-)
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I want to spread the joy of crafting everywhere! :-) I want to make it affordable, available, and enjoyable. Digital stamps and assets let me serve artists worldwide while maintaining low costs and providing speedy shipping. I am also expanding my horizons into making other digital products like planners, journals, and similar essentials which will incorporate beauty and function together.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The simple joy of making something beautiful and having someone love your creation. The energy gain is priceless. Creativity brings so many people from so many different walks of life together. It breaks down all boundaries of region, race, religion, or others. The human connections I have built so far are just incredible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.VaradaSharma.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/varadasharma/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VaradaSharma/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/varadasharma
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/varadasharma/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/VaradaSharma/
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/varadasharma