Artist ~ Nina D. ~ Warwick

Artist’s name: Nina D. 

Shop name: ZeNNinaStudio 

Website: Zenninastudio.etsy.com 

Instagram: @zengardennina 

1. Tell us about your work: 

I create miniature Zen gardens, trinket boxes, canvas paintings & some home decor. 

2. Is there a story behind the name of your business? 

I wanted to embrace a daily practice of meditation, minimalism and balance. I started creating art with a Zen / nature theme. Miniature Zen gardens were my main focus at the time. So a name simple and easy to remember was born. 

3. How did you come to be a professional artist/crafter/designer? 

I started sharing my art as gifts for birthdays and holidays. It felt the most genuine to give gifts made with the heart. Everyone really enjoyed receiving something unique and one of a kind. So I wanted to share with more people. 

4. Where do you draw your inspiration? 

My creativity is inspired by nature. I love hiking, canoeing and walking by the water. Flowers, sunsets, and animals inspire me as well. 

5. I really dig your quahog shell garden. Can you tell us about the process? 

The quahog shell gardens are really cool! The shells are collected and thoroughly cleaned. I play around and figure out how they look best. It's a very organic process. I'd describe the shell gardens as delicate and whimsical. 

6. What’s your favorite item to create? 

I love creating boxes with beautiful covers or surprising designs inside. Art that is functional + useful, or painting a picture that completes a room total design. 

7. What’s your best seller? 

The Zen gardens decorated with natural pressed leaves have done very well. The mini shell gardens have also been a hit. 

8. How long have you been in Rhode Island? 

I am a Rhode Island native, born and raised. 

9. What do you {heart} about Rhode Island? 

The oceans, the fresh local seafood and our restaurants. We have so much to choose from, in such a tiny state it's very special. 

10. Favorite place to take out-of-towners? 

Newport shopping and dining, historic sightseeing and maybe even a walk on the beach! 

11. Any advice for new/wannabe makers? 

Keep going, try new ideas, and critique yourself only as you would someone else. Give yourself the time to improve, and credit when finally due. Enjoying the process is half the work, patience is the other half. You'll never know if you are going to enjoy creating something until you try it! 

12. Please include anything else you’d like to add: 

I'm honored to have my shop featured on your blog. Thanks so much!