A monthly column that keeps its finger on the pulse of Forsyth’s artists and their inspiring stories. This month we’re interviewing three artists from The Cricket’s Nest Craft Shop, a local non-profit outreach giving the senior community of Forsyth County a place to display and sell their crafts. These women share a passion for repurposed work and proudly share the mindset that simply being creative is a form of art.
JoAnnah Michael | Steel Art
steelartrepurposed.com
How would you describe your work?
My art is meant to inspire others as it inspires me, by repurposing steel into artistic sculptures by cutting it and welding it by hand.
What influences your art ?
When I first started to weld, my mum (now 94) would encourage my work by asking for sculptures for her garden. Her requests for specific designs like butterflies, flowers, birds, etc., broadened my own sculpture designs and skills. My dream of taking my craft further became a reality when I learned to weld at an “Intro Welding Class”at MIXXER Community Makerspace in Winston-Salem. My work is influenced by the repurposed materials as well as my clients introducing new concepts and requests.
What are you working on that excites you right now?
I’ve recently begun working on a commission to create a large (8’x6′) kinetic wind “Blue Heron” steel repurposed sculpture to be set in 3′ shallow water for a private estate in Lake Norman. It definitely pushes those size and weight limits! Thankfully, my partner, Les (my muscle man), helps me lift and place my larger work on site!
What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow artists?
My dream of welding began when I watched “Flashdance” in 1983, where Jennifer Beal was a steel welder. My advice to women interested in welding is not to wait “36 years” to follow their dream like I did! Do it now!
Dorothy Sweet | Functional Art
Dory-Sweet-Art.square.site
How would you describe your work?
I repurpose old records and CDs headed to the landfill into clocks and wall art. I primarily work with fluid, abstract art that forces me to let go of control. Instead of waste, the paint that drips from the art is captured to create jewelry. I also brush paint and collage a variety of images. I originally started painting as a way to escape side effects from cancer treatments and it continues to be my therapy.
During craft events, my art becomes a ministry that allows me to talk about Cancer Services with people that God brings across my path. I always share that I donate 10% to Cancer Services which opens the door for conversation where I can provide help if a need exists.
What influences your art ?
Painting has opened my eyes to a new way of seeing. From nature, color combinations in clothing, discussions with shoppers, found objects, new tools, and anything that catches my attention and makes me smile becomes an influence. Brainstorming with customers for commissioned pieces has opened up so many new ideas!
What are you working on that excites you right now?
I’ve been experimenting with safe ways to cut vinyl record albums so I can create shaped clocks, ornaments, and earrings. Also, the bark from my tree that was struck by lightning has been curing in my garage and is ready to be the “canvas” for painting angels!
What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow artists?
Do what you can, when you can – listen to your body and prioritize creative time. Experiment to find “the thing” that makes your heart sing and embrace it. Don’t worry about finding “your style” or following a current fad. The end result is not as important as enjoying the process!
Sherry Gabard | Eclectic Home Decor
How would you describe your work?
I create unique pieces made from repurposed materials of all kinds.
What influences your art ?
Sometimes it’s as simple as asking, “Hey, what can I make out of that?” I’m often inspired by the generous donations of discarded items from my family and friends. After taking apart a backyard playhouse recently my son asked, ”Mother, I guess that you are going to want this wood?” The look on someone’s face when they see just the right piece that has been created from scraps is the ultimate reward in my work.
What are you working on that excites you right now?
Hands down, it would be finishing a quilt that my mother started when I was 17. She was an expert seamstress but this was not her thing, although her stitches were amazing. She encouraged me to take a quilting class and I have never stopped making, selling or gifting quilts but this one is a treasure.
What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow artists?
Remember that not everyone likes everything and that’s how it’s supposed to be. An artist should always make their own artform from vision and love doing it.
To learn more about these artists and support repurposed local art you can visit the Cricket’s Nest Craft Shop at 4401 Country Club Road in Winston-Salem. You can also check out their Fall Festival on October 6th & 7th and Holly Jolly Craft Festival on November 3rd & 4th.
