A Life Stitched with Creativity: Nicholas Ball's Story

Breaking the Blocks

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Why do some creatives break boundaries successfully while others struggle to find their spark? Join us as we sit down with the renowned improv quilter Nicholas Ball, also known for his stunning Instagram presence under @QuiltsfromtheAttic, who shares his unexpected journey from a disillusioned photographer to a celebrated textile artist. Nicholas recounts his transformation, painting a picture of a creative upbringing shaped by his grandmother and father, and how those early influences in knitting, embroidery, and woodworking steered him towards his current passion for quilting.
Discover how Nicholas navigated through family dynamics and found his artistic voice amidst contrasting interests with his sports-loving brother. We reminisce about the special bond he shared with his grandmother over sewing, gardening, and baking, which not only grounded his textile career but also inspired his first book. Nicholas offers a candid look at his creative evolution, discussing how a simple image of a leek led him to embrace improv quilting and how impactful events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement have influenced his work.
Nicholas doesn't shy away from sharing the unseen struggles of maintaining a creative career, from the emotional challenges of balancing personal and professional life to the pressures of perfectionism. Learn about his adventures in Paris, his shift from photography to quilting, and the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with insights into Nicholas's creative process, the making of his latest book, "Use an Ornament," and the life lessons he's gathered along the way.
To follow Nicholas head over to Instagram @quiltsfromtheattic
To buy the book you can find it here:
https://luckyspool.com/products/use-ornament-the-history-and-exploration-of-the-improv-quilt?_pos=1&_sid=8d5a06494&_ss=r
Also on Amazon UK and USA
Nicholas will also be signing copies on the Bernina stand at the Festival of Quilts 2024.
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1. A Life Stitched with Creativity: Nicholas Ball's Story (00:00:00)

2. Interview With Quilter Nicholas Ball (00:00:04)

3. Family Dynamics and Artistic Inspiration (00:06:42)

4. Creative Inspiration From Unexpected Sources (00:16:01)

5. The Unseen Struggles of Creativity (00:22:48)

6. Embracing Perfection and Creative Challenges (00:34:43)

7. Creative Journey and Life Lessons (00:42:41)

8. Spreading the Word and Support (00:50:13)