About
I'm Cher Kaufmann, daughter of a rare wild bird and the Lone Ranger, sister to high desert dwellers, wife to a creative genius, and proud mother of adult sparks who are soon to be lighthouses in their own right.
I am curious, curly, and creative. Yes, I am all these things. I tell people all those amazing white curly hairs are all my good ideas finally spilling out - can't hide a good thing when you're doing your thing.
I am an author, artist, illustrator, surface designer, instructor, and inspirational presenter. My greatest interest lies within the innate patterns of nature, people, places, and things.
My eclectic background includes studies as a Reiki Master and teacher, Chinese face reading, Certified Aromatherapist, Ayurveda, Five Element Theory, homeopathy, photography, music, energetic modalities, and esoteric teachings. I'm also a MTI, and retired LMT. Over the years, I fine-tuned my ability as an Intuitive, allowing me to "tune in" to others' energy patterns. I was a Licensed Massage Therapist for over 20 years. I also obtained levels I and II of the Specialty Tea Institute's Certified Tea Specialist program.
I've been creating since I was a little desert sparrow.
If I've learned anything this go around, it is each step leads us to the next. Without a doubt, we are meant to experience, learn, grow, and apply. Repeat.
Why "Cher the fire"?
Fire has always been a source of warmth and light, intertwined with the symbolism of inspiration, illumination, passion, and creativity. Just as a candle can light another without diminishing its light, spreading more brightness into the world, you can share your personal illuminating qualities just by being yourself. It only takes a small brilliant source to light up a cavern, the soft glow of a nightlight to allow one to find their way, or a single radiating beam to be a lighthouse.
When you express your creative side, you glimmer from within, and a light shines (it's true - lookup bioluminescence) - you are your own flame; hence we can all share (Cher) the fire.
The Art
Cher the Fire is here to bring reflections of the natural world through art and symbolism to your home, reminding you of the delicate details and enormous complexity of nature are more than just what you see. Each design and pattern has a story, a meaning, and an extension of what you see and feel, allowing you to express yourself. Art is representative!
I love creating multifunctional art, which allows you further creative use and enjoyment. I love creative paper arts, kitchen arts, and imagination in all forms. I want to be your favorite gift maker and personal collection maker.
Publications and Collaborations
Just to name a few....My published coloring books have been featured in the Allen Image magazine (where I was also on the cover in Feb 2016), the Dallas Morning News, numerous art blogs, Mantra Wellness Magazine, ACTV Spotlight, and Mayo Minute, a video from the Mayo Clinic on the benefits of coloring.
My essential oil book, Nature's Essential Oils, is the basis for articles and interviews in Shape Magazine, Experience Life Magazine, and Mantra Magazine.
I illustrated coloring books for The Historic Downtown Association of Plano, Plano Magazine, Visit Plano, The City of Southlake, Countryman Press catalog cover, and The City of Allen as well for independent commissions, projects, collaborations, and commercial logos.
See my official page on publication, collaboration and services here.
I am an independent freelancer, as well as available for art licensure.
My visual storytelling through Instagram, and my official author Facebook page showcases current works. And of course, YouTube for free coloring tutorials.
Wholesale friends can find me on LinkedIn and Faire.
Whew! If you made it through all of that, you might be as curious as I am!
OH, and while I grew up in the mountain valleys of southern Arizona, I now live with my family in Texas, but I don't wear cowboy boots with shorts (because I'm sure you're wondering).
Warmly,
Cher