Home is Where the Art Is – Totally Tangled Creations

This story series showcases Summit County artists who create beautiful and functional items for the home. Meet April Couch of Totally Tangled Creations who has a shop at Summit Art Space.

What inspires your work?
I am inspired by the natural shapes and patterns that occur in nature like the different shapes of flowers, leaves, berries, fungus and even moss.  I am also inspired by the designs in old architecture and fashion.

When did you realize you were an artist?
When I realized that I had transitioned to doing art full time, and was making a good income from it, I started to think of myself  as an artist.  But nothing solidified that more than the happiness I feel when I’m creating and I realize that this is my job.  Pure giddiness is the result!

What’s your philosophy on the end product?
I love the thrill of starting a new piece because I’m addicted to the end result, and the fact that it turns out different every time.

What do you love the most about your process?
I love that anything is possible one line at a time and no two pieces are ever the same.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself transitioning to working more with gourds.  They pair very well with my style and they come in many different shapes and sizes. I can carve, draw, or paint on them.  The possibilities are endless!  I also see myself transitioning from doing so many art shows to spending more time and the shop, as well as teaching some classes.

How did you end up with a shop at Summit Art Space?
I started off with a little shop in Canton, and when a space opened up at Summit Artspace, I applied because I wanted to be closer to home.

Do you offer classes or workshops?
I offer Zentangle, dot painting, and crocheting classes, but not right now.  Please check my social media outlets for the restart of classes once Covid restrictions are lifted.

Do you have any tips for beginners?
The best tip I can give beginners is to believe in yourself, figure out what you love doing, and never give up until you have made that your job.

Where can people buy your products?
The places to buy my products are in my shop and art shows.  Show dates will be listed on my Facebook page at TotallyTangledCreations: by April Nichlolson-Couch, and my Instagram page at TotallyTangledCreations.  Right now, we are open on Saturday from 11:00am -5:00pm.  These hours will be extended as Covid restrictions are lifted, so check my Facebook page or call me at 330-294-1029 before you plan your visit.

April Couch, owner of Totally Tangled Creations is a self-taught Zentangle inspired artist and Certified Zentangle Teacher.  She started seriously pursuing her art in 2012 and went full-time in 2014. She has been recognized publicly with numerous art awards. She is also an experienced teacher who loves to mentor and encourage young people to pursue their artistic dreams.