Meet Christie (Gypsy) Woodkins (Lion) | Purveyor of beautiful handmade items.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Christie (Gypsy) Woodkins (Lion) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christie (Gypsy), can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was actually born in a small country town. So I learned to love nature and simple things. Which I incorporate a lot in my designs. When I was little my mom loved going to yard sales and taking me a long with her to find my own treasures. My sister introduced me to the library at a young age and my love of books has only grown. From those experiences I developed a love for antiques which I still sell today. Those loves have now influenced my journal and jewelry making. I get to take antique papers, books and various other elements and turn them into beautiful journals that have undertones of nature and vintage vibes.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The grace of God is responsible for me being where I am in life. I’m still growing and hope to continue. The style of my art comes from the love of variety. Having ADHD fuels that, which leads me to create mostly one of a kind pieces that none else could ever completely recreate.

How I got started along the path of becoming entrepreneur was going to a seminar 20+ years ago and learning that you should love you you do for business, because then it doesn’t feel like work. No it was not easy, I’ve had my ups and downs along the way. Sometimes more downs than ups but the grace carried me through. I’ve learned that you have to believe in yourself and learn to forgive mistakes you make along the way and learn from them so as not to repeat them. I want people to know that my creations have history behind them. Everything that shapes me, also shapes my art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well we’d sleep in a least once and just enjoy relaxing. Then we’d find places with beautiful scenery. I’d take them to the lake and probably fishing. Then we’d find a museum, have seafood. We’d visit Whole Foods because I love it there and it’s an experience on it’s own. A little shopping and I’d make most meals at home as I know my way around the kitchen. The rest would be whatever they wanted to do.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Jehovah for giving me the strength to overcome hardships and for the gift of creation and imagination. My mother Rose Woodkins for taking me on treasure hunts and my sister Linda for showing me the beauty of books. Also my oldest sister Shirley for introducing me to the arts. And my children for loving me through it all.

Website: Thepaperlion.online

Instagram: @papierlion

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@TheGypsyLion