The Artist

My love of art, photography, design & clothing began when I was a little girl. Growing up in the 70's my Mama had the best closet, her wardrobe, an amazing black leather trench coat, an a-line snake skin leather coat, a silver metallic bikini & a full length coral halter dress with a jacket that had matching coral ostrich feather cuffs. Her closet was a dream to play dress up. Gigi my Mama has great style and can sew anything. She introduced me to sewing and creating at a young age. She made a lot  of my clothing when I was younger as I was too thin for slim's, she even made my wedding dress. In 2020 it was my 25th wedding anniversary and I still try my dress on, I always take a few photos in it. I would wear it today, it is a classic cream empire waist with a tiny mermaid train. I'm still playing dress up and inspired by all fashion.

 

I didn't begin really begin up-cycling/designing or sewing until 2010 I had an idea with a friend to make boots with upcycled materials. The boots never happened but I did upcycle woven & vintage knits to create the tops of the boots...then I realized they were the cutest leg warmers. In 2013 I posted my first pair on Instagram and people started to ask if I was selling them. So I did, I sold pairs all over the world. It was easy to market and sell them as I grew up wearing leg warmers in the 80's and I was also teaching yoga. I lost count on how many pairs I have sold. I have opened and closed 2 yoga studio's and I loved both studio spaces. Now I currently still teach SUP Yoga in the Summer and also Travel with my Vintage 14ft Trailer "The Av" Avalon. My beautiful vintage mobile boutique.

 

I am definitely a gypsy. I offer tea leaf readings, do intuitive energy work & guide full/new moon meditations too.  After I closed my 2nd Yoga Studio in 2019, I decided to really focus on my art work. Watercolor is my absolute favorite. I am self taught. I have painted with acrylics off and on but really began to focus on my painting in 2015. I paint because I have to get it out...I'm still not sure what I'm getting out, but I do know I am in meditation and time stands still. When I pick up my paint brush I float away and feel the most balanced when I am painting. I love all things creative.

 

I have a passion for photography. I have been a photographer since 2003 but my love of photography was influenced by my Dad. I grew up with him taking 8 mm movies, pictures with a slide camera, then vhs movies and finally digital images. My Dad took a million photos, & now I might even rival him. 

 

I love to do intuitive portrait photography to capture the light within.. I began taking portraits with my brother. I would say he is the Artist of the family. He has a talent that inspires me daily. He can create in any medium: wood, glass, canvas, photography & paper. He is a true Artist. When he would have portrait photography sessions, I would be the second camera shooting and we would compare the different perspectives and shots we would capture. When I began focusing on painting he continured to guide & encourage my art work.

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My family inspires me to create and they support my creativity, I feel so lucky. One of my new creative passions is leather work. Last year I recently was able to buy a 1940s Vintage Singer Cobblers Treddle Sewing Machine. It has taken me months to get it working properly and  I am currently working on a few leather handbags. I have a few simple fun styles that will be made to order.

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My Love Kirk & I opened a takeout restaurant in late 2018 called Order. & Order. Cafe & Takeout in 2022.My husband has been a Chef for 30 years and finally took the leap to open his own place.His creativity is with food. I am surounded by creativity.  I manage the website, marketing & social media. Plus, I do the baking! We are both busy creating. Thankfully my art keeps me balanced.

 

Creativity runs in the family our Son Reece is an amazing photographer. He has a natural talent & has helped me with photography sessions. He has graduated with a degree in Communications Media. It is exciting to see him work with his creativity in film, tv and radio production.

 

Check out my newest prints & my upcyled clothing & current vintage finds.

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Creating Beauty Every Day...

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freespiritbeauty xoxo