Art was always her thing. Anita Bausman has been a freelance artist for most of her adult life. She’s created everything from textiles to table scapes, “Some of my work ended up on sheets for a large department store.”
While her kids were young, Anita was very involved at their schools but always with art as the focus. Whether she as helping with an art project or designing theatre sets, she was able to express her creative side. She also donated pieces of her artwork to schools and local charities for auctions to raise money.
It’s her Danish background that influences her art, “We spend our summers in Denmark where I’m from. My grandmother was an artist and she’s been a big influence in my work.” Anita teaches budding artist of all ages at the Carriage Barn in New Canaan. She has classes for kids from 4 years old to high school age. One of her favorite classes to teach is a wine and cheese class for moms’ night out. “They leave with something they can hang right away.”
Her esthetic is fresh and modern with bold splashes of color. Think Marimekko. Not only does she do canvases and photographs, but she also paints pillows and puts her work on small acrylic art blocks. Anita is offering a Deck Your Dorm series of pieces that go together for kids headed to boarding school and college. Her small acrylic blocks have inspirational sayings and expressions of love. “They’re great for moms to give their kids. “
If you have something in mind or want a particular color, Anita loves to customize her work for clients. Now that her three kids, ages 13, 15, and 17, are more independent, she has more time and wants to ramp up her career. “I want to work and be busy especially since empty nesting is not far off.” Anita would love to have her pillows and blocks produced in larger numbers to reach a larger audience.
Right now, Anita is launching her online store and hosting a launch party with her sister, Michele of Oak Street Kitchen, on May 5th. (Details below.) “We spend time in Montauk and I see hotels being transformed there. I can see my esthetic in a hotel with a modern Danish vibe.” Anita says the best thing about working for herself is the flexibility, “We travel a lot and with three kids in sprots, the freedom is the best.”
VentureMom Tip
Turn your passion into a business.
Launch Party – May 5th (rain Date May 6th) 64 Oak Street Pool House, 11:30 – 3 and 6 – 9, Email [email protected] for more information.
