About Chris Davenport
"I enjoy creating
opportunities to bring a
smile to someone's face."
"Through the use of color,
subject and feeling, my art work is light-hearted, uplifting and joyful!"
My whole life has been centered around art, crafts and all things creative. It is part of my nature…part of who I am. I am a very visual person and enjoy working with my hands to express myself.
The best parts of being an artist are not only the challenges
and the feeling of accomplishment, but also being around delightful, talented fellow artists. It is nice to be with like-minded people who don’t think you’re crazy!
Whenever I begin work on a new piece, it is an adventure into creating happiness. This approach has resulted in a successful career spanning more than fifty years.
My first foray into commercial art was in the 1960’s when I began making jewelry out of cornstarch and baking soda. Those “Feeling Groovy” flower “Chris Pins” helped pay for college at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, where I majored in Art and Home Economics. I was honored to be a member of the Beta Beta Chapter of Phi Epsilon Omicron Fraternity.
After college I worked for FAMILY CIRCLE magazine as a creative craft and needlework designer for many years.
From FAMILY CIRCLE magazine, I worked as a contributing artist designing needlepoint and embroidery kits for SUNSET STITCHERY and DIMENSIONS needlework corporations, receiving royalty compensation.
Chris Original "Feeling Groovy" flower pin at Cal Poly
Chris Davenport wearing "Love" flower pin
Cal Poly 1968-69 The Architecture Patio
Dance Band: "Pacific GRASS and Electric"
Photo: Dave Pimentel
The response was so enthusiastic to the needlework designs that I was able to license hundreds of designs to multiple companies in the puzzle, stationery, publishing and giftware industries including Colorforms, Contempo, Enesco, Great American Puzzle Factory and Mead Paper Products to name a few.
"I think Chris' designs greatest appeal is that they are light- hearted, innocent and appealing...they are timeless and charming. Her designs make you feel good", said Carol Siegal, director of product development for DIMENSIONS Needlework Company.
I love to create little reminders that say I care and am thinking of special people, whether it is a note with a lucky ladybug, a cute mug, or a whimsical smartphone case. Bring on the smiles!
As the creator of LOVE 'N STUFF, my art was featured on a variety of ENESCO gifts including figurines, mugs, kitchen stuff, magnets, plaques, trivets, colorful tins, and Christmas gift products.
Painting class at La Rusticana Vineyard
"Feeling Groovy" Chris pins
I am still designing and creating. You can find my most recent work featured on products at zazzle.com/store/chrisdavenportdok.
"Frog Lady" Water Lily Pond
at La Rusticana
My oil and acrylic paintings are on exhibit at Gallery 24 Fine Art in Los Gatos, California.
"Red Rose" painting at Gallery 24 - Photo by Marie Cameron
I have a wonderful husband, a great family and great friends. Life is abundant…Celebrate with gratitude!
Sonora Class of '66
Photo by Peter S. Carter