Monday, July 21, 2008



This week we are fortunate to have an interview with JunkyardGypsy!


1.What is the name of your shop/s?

Junkyard Gypsy

2. What kind of items do you sell?

Mostly recycled assemblage art, with some select vintage items thrown in.

3. How did you find Etsy and Boomers also?

My sister, KarmaRox, got me started on Etsy – she found it and loved it, and just kept talking about it until I decided to check it out, too. I heard that joining teams was a good way to become involved and get your name out there, so I looked around until I found the team that felt right for me – the Boomers!

4. How long have you been engaged in your art/craft?

I’ve only been doing recycled assemblages for about a year, but have always dabbled in various kinds of crafts – cross-stitch, basket weaving, tole painting, crochet, plastic canvas, ceramics – but I never felt as much satisfaction as I’ve found from recycling junk into a craft.

5. Do you consider yourself a hobbyist or a professional craftsperson?

It’s purely a hobby, but I would love for it to evolve into more.

6. What inspires you?

Almost everything – but especially my family and looking around at the miracle of nature. Sitting in my water garden, giving my mind free reign to wander is the best. I also get a kick out of using something that I found at the dumpster - knowing I kept something out of the landfill is a thrill.

7. Please share with us what a typical day is like in your workshop or studio?

Well, I really don’t have a “typical” day – they’re never the same. It just depends on what turns up in the junkyard. I spend a lot of time trying different parts together, trying to come up with a combination that looks good together, and also a lot of time cleaning whatever I’ve brought in. The vintage parts I collect are usually pretty dirty and need some TLC. And sometimes they have to be dis-assembled before I assemble them into something else. I also spend A LOT of time looking for this or that – my space is spread out and not very organized – mostly because our shop is primarily devoted to our boat manufacturing business, and I just stick my “junk” wherever I can find a spot.

8. What keeps you company while you are working on a project?

I’m usually listening to oldies on the radio. And my dog Max sometimes like to hang around.

9. What is your favorite 'task' related to your art/craft?

Oooh, this is an easy question – going to estate auctions is my passion! I love finding old things that nobody else seems to want, but that can be turned into something whimsical – rescuing lost treasures is so much fun!

10. What is your least favorite 'task' related to your art/craft?

Hmmmm, I don’t know – it’s all great fun. I guess the “marketing” is my least favorite part – creating a listing on Etsy seems to take me forever – taking pics, editing them, creating the listing – I would much rather spend that time creating!

11. Would you care to share any 'words of wisdom' with other aspiring artists or
crafters?

I dunno – I’m not very wise LOL. But I guess just to find something you love, and don’t listen to the naysayers. If you have a passion for doing something, just do it!


Please leave a comment for the artist/craftsperson on this blogt as she is sure to want to know what you think and what you can relate to!

16 comments:

Chauncey said...

Great interview with one of my favorites! Junky has a a terrific imagination to be able to see beautiful potential in what others do not!

AltheaP said...

"Find something you love and don't listen to naysayers," sounds pretty darn wise to me!

jstinson said...

Enjoyed the interview. It takes vision to see what something cast off by others can become. I applaud your talent for doing that very thing!

Google isn't taking my password for some reason....Joni

jstinson said...

Oops, did it that time!

joon said...

I love Junk! She and I share an affinity for salvaging the forlorn discards of our world. Her art is incredible and always joyful and so is she. I just love her to (junkyard) pieces and am so happy you chose her. Thank you for a lovely interview, Van. This series is fantastic. Always learn something new about our friends and their passions.

Zuda Gay Pease said...

You cannot look at a Junky piece of art and NOT smile! :) They are so cool, so whimsical, adorable and quirky!

Dayna said...

It is always neat to hear what makes others click with their given crafts/talents. Great interview.

jemsbyjb said...

A very unique talent. I enjoyed reading the interview.

Anonymous said...

Oh my gosh, what wonderful comments you all have left = thank you Van for the opportunity to participate in the blog, and to all of you who have given me so much friendship and support!

Hugs and kisses,
Junky

Rose said...

I really enjoyed reading about how your create your wonderful and unique items Junky, great interview!!

Renée Gandy said...

I love Junky's work,,it makes me smile..great interview Brett

Precious Quilts said...

Great interview about a very talented and lovely person!

Jean Levert Hood said...

Gypsy is such a great part of our group!! Wonderful!

Judy Nolan said...

I love the creativity that goes into each of your pieces.

maryeb said...

Junky does the most amazing, fun pieces. I'm glad I caught up on my reading. I wouldn't have wanted to miss this interview.

Anitra Cameron said...

Oh, man. I LOVE your work, JunkyardGypsy! Absolutely love it.