Today we’re joined by Amanda, who also goes by doctortreklock. Amanda is a delightful and incredibly talented artist who specializes in crochet. She crochets a bit of everything from pot holders to little models. When she’s not crocheting, Amanda dabbles in fanfiction, mostly Supernatural. It’s obvious she loves what she does, which makes for a great interview. My thanks to her for taking the time to participate in this interview.
WORK
Please, tell us about your art.
I’m a crocheter. I make (a lot of) pot holders, these days. But I’ve also made butterfly ornaments, bookmarks, and bags. I’m a bit of a spinner also, and have been known to write a bit of fanfiction, mostly Supernatural.
What inspires you?
I love the flexibility that crochet gives me (I wasn’t really getting that with knitting). I love being able to just start with a circle and make something. I like trying to find ways to make utilitarian pieces efficiently or to make existing patterns more efficient.
What got you interested in your field? Have you always wanted to be an artist?
I had been knitting before, but I really started crocheting in college. My mom had taught me the basics when I was in high school, but I hadn’t really used it until it was my junior year of undergrad and I had a paper to write. I had some yarn already from my stalled knitting projects and I borrowed a hook from a friend and ta-da! I’ve always loved trying to find new, creative ways to think about things, whether it be math problems or crochet problems.
Do you have any kind of special or unique signature, symbol, or feature you include in your work that you’d be willing to reveal?
*chuckles* Um, no? Not that I know of, at least.
What advice would you give young aspiring artists?
Just do something. Start small. Go with it. Don’t be afraid to mess up, you can always try again differently next time. Make this one unique.
ASEXUALITY
Where on the spectrum do you identify?
I am an aromantic(-ish?) asexual.
Have you encountered any kind of ace prejudice or ignorance in your field? If so, how do you handle it?
Not really. I have been fortunate enough to not have to deal with a lot of prejudice. If there are people I know who would say things about it, they haven’t said them to me.
What’s the most common misconception about asexuality that you’ve encountered?
I really only have one. I was seeing a counselor on campus and we were talking about my orientations and how I wasn’t absolutely sure I was aro, but was sticking with it for the time being. He asked me if I thought identifying as aromantic might be hurting my chances at a future romantic relationship. Insert eyeroll here.
What advice would you give to any asexual individuals out there who might be struggling with their orientation?
It’s okay to not have it figured out. I’ve gone through several labels myself. There is only one queer person I know who hasn’t questioned their romantic/sexual identity at some point and he’s gayer than a tree full of monkeys on nitrous oxide. It’s fine. You’ll figure it out at some point. 😀
Finally, where can people find out more about your work?
My Tumblr is doctortreklock, and I’m on AO3 under the same. My Etsy is HarmoniaThreadwork.
Thank you, Amanda, for participating in this interview and this project. It’s very much appreciated.
Asexual Artists 