Meet Kerri Ciullo, a hand-embroidery artist who emulates nature and its unique strength and intricacy in all her work.
What does a typical day in the life look like for you?
A typical day for me consists of my multiple treatment methods for the chronic illnesses I battle and managing my small business. Both are a full time job in their own regard. I deal with stress quite frequently and at times it feels like I can’t relax even when I’m exhausted. CBD has been beyond helpful in both managing chronic pain as well as anxiety/depression. Sweet Reason makes using CBD even sweeter.
What's your greatest source of inspiration?
I have always found my greatest inspiration in my own personal experiences as well as the intricacy of nature.
How did you get into embroidery?
I’ve spent most of my life battling multiple severe chronic illnesses that left me housebound for many years. I found embroidery when I became too sick to even paint anymore. It was the one medium I could do lying down on even my worst days.
Do you ever find yourself in a creative rut? If so, How do you get out of it?
I think it’s very common for all artists to go through periods of stagnation in their work. I have definitely experienced those moments. I find that allowing my creative mind to take breaks has been the best way to allow new inspiration to emerge.
What does CBD lend to your practice?
I have always been a very anxious person. Sweet Reason allows my body and mind to relax so I can put more energy into the creative process.
How do you find your wellness, state of mind and/or mental health shapes your work?
I believe that years of suffering with illness/isolation/depression definitely influenced a large portion of my older work. As I am healing, I’m seeing a lightness to my work that has been super refreshing. I think that amazing work can be the result of both pain and joy. Each is beautiful in its own way.
Your work showcases many elements of nature - has nature always been an important part of your life?
Yes, the natural world has always been my place of solace. I find my deepest sense of inner peace when I’m surrounded by the beauty of flora and fauna.
How do you stay focused?
I definitely struggle at times. I’ve always been one to daydream a bit too much, though that’s when I stumble upon some of my best ideas. Finding CBD has been incredibly helpful in getting my mind to slow down so I can focus on one idea at a time.
What is the role of art in your life?
It has quite literally been my savior and my voice for most of my life.
How do you unwind?
Over the last few years I’ve learned to unwind with forms of self care. Hot detox baths, cannabis, and sauna time have been my saviors.
What does success mean to you?
Living up to your full potential and feeling good about what you’re putting into the world. As well as learning to love yourself, even if it takes a lifetime. Knowing that my work is admired has been such a beautiful form of personal success for me.
Has social media impacted the way you create?
It’s definitely created some pressure to constantly produce new work, but I like that challenge. It has also allowed me to share my work and story with so many amazing folks. I feel truly blessed for that.
Shop the limited-edition I Heart Hemp Hat
Brand you love?
Siete!
Currently inspired by?
Spring
Favorite item to embroider?
Life hack of all life hacks?
Be true to yourself
Most played song right now?
The entire Chemtrails over the county club album on repeat.
Favorite current read?
At the moment I’ve been obsessed with reading books on wild foraging edible herbs and flowers in my area.
If you could grab lunch with one person, who would it be?
Frida Khalo