Vintage inspiration is more than just a fleeting trend for me; it's an everlasting passion that breathes life into my art. From the charm of a 1930s sewing advertisement to the elegance of Art Deco jewellery, the past has a way of weaving into my creative process. I’d love to share with you how vintage items shape my designs and bring a touch of yesterday into today.
Introduction to Vintage Influence
From a young age, I was captivated by the charm of vintage items. Both my parents and my Grandmother had antiques throughout their homes. I always loved inspecting them and appreciating the intricate designs, the history they carry, and the stories they tell. It’s something that has always fascinated me. The two bottles in the middle of the photo below were from my Gram’s collection. One is called “Nectar of the Golden Life of Health and Vitality” and the one beside it says “Poison” :) My passion for vintage styles and trends isn't just about aesthetics; it's about connecting with a bygone era and infusing my art with its essence. What draws me to these styles is the elegance and detail-oriented craftsmanship that often accompanies an everyday item like a wooden crate, a woodworker’s level, or glass medicine bottle (to name a mere few).
Vintage Objects I Love
HISTORIC Tools
Hand tools from a century ago hold a special kind of magic. These tools, often crafted with meticulous attention to detail and built to last, tell stories of craftsmanship and hard work. The worn handles and patina of age reflect a bygone era when quality and durability were paramount. I find inspiration in these tools' rugged beauty, incorporating their shapes and textures into my art.
Timeless Wooden Boxes
There’s something inherently nostalgic about wooden boxes. Whether they were once used to store food, supplies, or tools, these boxes carry the charm of their original purpose. Their craftsmanship, often featuring dovetail joints and rich wood grains, speaks to a time when even the most functional items were made with care and artistry.
Ornate Frames and Antique Mirrors
Ornate frames and antique mirrors are treasures from the past that exude elegance and charm. These pieces often feature intricate carvings and elaborate designs, showcasing the artistry of their creators. I love repurposing these old parts to breathe new life into them, transforming them into functional and aesthetic pieces.
Art and Vintage Connection
To truly understand how vintage items influence my artwork, let’s take a closer look at some specific pieces:
Vintage Potting Shed
A space where everything has its place, highlighting the gardener's care and attention to detail. Each tool was made to last, and have beautiful style lines and patina.
Vintage Singer Sewing Machine
Delicate lines and designs are pinstriped on a custom Singer sewing machine, perfect for a sewist's creative space.
Charming Kitchenware
Vintage kitchen tools and teacups capture the nostalgic joy of baking and enjoying treats!
Behind-the-Scenes Process
Sourcing vintage items is an adventure in itself! I spend weekends scouring antique markets and garage sales, searching for pieces that speak to me. The thrill of finding a unique item, learning about its history, and imagining its past is a special part of my creative process.
Once I bring these items back to my studio, I'll study their colors, shapes, and textures, allowing these elements to guide the development of new pieces. Incorporating these items isn't always about replication but rather about interpreting and reimagining their essence in a contemporary context.
Nostalgia and vintage items are more than just sources of inspiration for my art—they are windows into the past. By incorporating these elements into my work, I strive to create pieces that resonate with viewers on a personal and emotional level. Whether it’s a memory of a loved one, a connection to a different era, or simply an appreciation for the beauty of the past, my art aims to evoke a sense of timelessness and joy.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the vintage influences that shape my art. If you want to see more of my work or learn about my creative process, stay tuned or browse my website!
