The power of SPD community: How one art call changed my perspective
As designers, we often find ourselves creating in quiet corners—hoping, experimenting, and wondering if what we make truly resonates. I’ve always believed in the value of community, but recently, I experienced just how powerful it can be.
It all started with an art call for artists for LITTLE COCALICO via Creative Studio Collective membership. I almost didn’t submit anything, but I decided to take a leap and send in a mini collection I’d been slowly building: Timeless Bloom. This collection was special—it was made up of three patterns that had already earned a spot in the top 100 of various Spoonflower challenges. Still, I had no idea how it would be received by a different audience.
To my surprise, Timeless Bloom was selected as one of just 20 collections to be featured and voted on by Little Cocalico’s community.
I didn’t win the final vote—but that didn’t matter as much as I thought it would. Being shortlisted among so many talented artists reminded me that my work has a voice. It was proof that even small, quiet efforts can catch the eye of people who spend their days reviewing an ocean of designs.
More importantly, it gave me the spark I needed to finally take the next step: launching my own online space. A place where I can share my collections and offer them for licensing.
This is just the beginning for Timeless Bloom, and for me. Follow along—I’d love for you to be part of this journey and see where it all leads.
