How have you been this summer, so far, dear reader? The weather has been pretty nice all around, and now that the ocean fire off the gulf coast is under control I would say July is starting off pretty swell.
This year we want to do something a bit different and shine a spotlight on all of the artists whose work we showcase at the shop. Stay tuned here every Monday for a new interview with a new artist whose work you might already have seen!
This week we’re talking to Liz Olney, whose line of Functional Art is available year round at The Shop. Read on to get more of a glimpse into her life, her art, and her hope for the future.
When did you start your work as an artist, and when did it evolve into the work that we see and sell at The Shop? My career as a leather craft-artist began when I moved from the UK to New York in the early seventies. I started working for a very trendy couple that made leather clothing for rock stars.
I went on to become a handbag designer for various large companies. Alas, as most of the production started moving to China, I decided it was time to create my own business.
After moving to Housatonic, I was able to become a part of the craft show community in the Berkshires, where I met so many other craft minded friends.
I see you call your work, Functional Art. It’s the first I’ve seen it before. Why did you choose this term to describe your work? I call my products "functional art" because (a) I like to produce functional creations that last for years, and (b) I believe it takes an artist to develop accessories that make people feel good and are confident they are wearing something original and beautiful.
Is there an artist in particular that inspires you and your artwork? One of my most admired artists in the Berkshires is the one and only Crispina French. She is the queen of the Berkshire craft community in my opinion.
What’s your favorite spot in the Berkshires to tell people about? My most treasured memories are having been a vendor at every single holiday fair in the church she owned with her husband in Pittsfield, "Shire city Sanctuary".
As an artist living in 2021, what is one message you want to spread to the world? My message to the world is to FIND YOUR PASSION! Making things can definitely bring one a sense of accomplishment, happiness, connection to others, AND keep you off the psychiatrist's couch!
Thank you to Liz for taking the time to speak with me this week, and if you’re interested in more from Liz check out her Facebook, and of course, see what she’s created at The Shop.
Until next time!
Philip
