Cricut Contributing Artist series: Bola Eniola
Bola, a talented artist from London, UK, specialises in many arts. By day, she’s a dedicated radiographer, but by night, she transforms into a creative powerhouse, crafting stunning cake toppers and other intricate designs. Let’s delve into her artistic journey and discover the passion behind her creations.
How did you find Cricut, and why did you join the Contributing Artist Program?
I discovered Cricut in 2020 during the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a radiographer, my days were intense, but the evenings were free, and I needed something to fill that time. I had considered making my own cake toppers as a hobby baker. During my research, I stumbled upon the Cricut machine. Around that time, I received a monetary gift, so I decided to take the plunge and bought the Cricut Maker. I knew nothing about it but was keen to learn.
After watching countless tutorials, I began making my own cake toppers. Initially, I bought SVGs instead of designing my own because I found the design process intimidating. However, as I gained confidence, I started creating my own designs. Realising that others might struggle like I did, I wanted to help them by providing my own SVGs. This led me to the Cricut Contributing Artist Program, which I found while searching for how to become a Cricut affiliate. I immediately applied, excited to share my designs with a wider audience and help others like me.
Where did your artistic journey begin?
Growing up, I never considered myself artistic but always creative. I loved dancing, singing, and anything that involved creativity. My artistic journey began when my second son turned one. I ordered a cake for £120 and thought I could improve myself. Being a perfectionist, I took a class to learn how to bake and decorate cakes. This sparked my creative journey, and I started making cakes for friends and family.
One thing that always frustrated me was buying cake toppers, especially when they didn’t arrive on time. I started making my cake toppers, introducing me to Cricut and design. I fell in love with it. All the creativity I never knew I had emerged, and I started making cake toppers and other designs. I’d see something on the street or a billboard and think, “I can make that!” Then, I’d go home and start designing. Now, I’d say I’m creative, artistic, and passionate about it.
What does creativity mean to you?
To me, creativity means using what you have to create something special. It could mean transforming an old T-shirt into a masterpiece or using three pieces of paper to create a multi-layered cake topper. It’s about seeing an object and making it better through design.
Who or what inspires you to create, and why?
My past experiences and the desire to meet a need inspire me. When creating or designing something, I consider whether it will meet someone’s needs, make their lives easier, or help them in some way. This motivation drives my creativity and passion.
What is your favorite type of craft, or what project have you created that you are most proud of?
I love paper crafts, especially designing cake toppers, which was my introduction to Cricut and SVGs. I feel most comfortable with any paper craft, including cake toppers, 3D letters, and shadow boxes. One of my proudest projects is a set of intricately designed cake toppers I’ve perfected over time.
Describe your artistic style and explain.
Conventional, Elegant, Modern. My artistic style is organised, analytical, and patterned. I love creating pretty things that are simple and practical. There’s no point in designing something unusable because it’s too thin or complicated to cut out.
How would your friends describe you?
Super organised. I like everything in its place and meticulously planned.
Choose a color to describe yourself.
Red is my favorite color. It’s vibrant, bold, and full of life, much like my creative spirit.
Aside from the necessities, what is one thing you could not go a day without?
My interdental brush. I hate having things stuck in my teeth.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know Bola and her incredible journey. Follow Bola’s beautiful images and creations in Design Space.
Interested in seeing more Contributing Artist images and designs? Check out all of our artists in Design Space!