Artsy hobbies outside of work?

Hi,

my name is Ruta and I am the human behind ARTsy clothing brand. Usually it's not even fair to call it (ARTsy clothing) 'work' as I see it as my hobby itself. Expressing my love for animals via creating new designs, choosing the right garment, printing/painting and every day is different. That is my kind of work!

However I have a couple of hobbies that I love doing while not at my studio fulfilling orders that I'd like to share. Here they are:

• Dog training

Since I was a little girl I was always obsessed with dogs. Growing up with Airedale terriers and having my own dog (Wire fox terrier) as soon as I moved out when I was 19. I feel that there is no better connection that between a dog and a human. I always thought I know a lot about dogs, but for the last year or so I dived hard into Positive reinforcement training and trick training and mental stimulation for dogs and it gives me so much joy - both for me and my 1yo Wire fox terrier girl. Sometimes I feel like training is not going as well as I think it should, but then you see the progress and it is such a confidence boost. I just love training and spending time with my pup.

• Interior design

I've studied Interior design back in Lithuania and then finished BA Architecture studies here in Brighton, UK. My love for colour, contrasts, patterns and making the most out of the space is what makes it so interesting and challenging at the same time. I love experimenting in my own home and trying new ideas on to my own walls and floors.

• Gardening

Even my own kids say that we have way too many plants both inside and outside. There is something about planting a seed, being able to grow and watch it getting bigger. Also it is connected to my passion for Interior design so much: plants makes spaces look better and also cleans air, makes it cosier and prettier. 

• Drawing

Well, this one is kind of tricky. I do most of the drawing and creating for ARTsy clothing which is technically work and not a hobby. But as I enjoy it so much - it just landed on this list. Sometimes I look through my old sketches and drawings (as old as my art school works) and it is difficult to comprehend that is done by me. Some images reminds me of a period of time in my life in a similar way as a song/album can do. It also relaxes me to draw and paint and I also feel very good when my kids getting inspired and starts drawing with me. Although they don't really need any push anyway as most of the time they have a pen or pencil in their hands.

What kind of hobbies do you have? Share it!