Artist Spotlight: Eugene Mayes
Forget expensive pearls and rubies – salvaged crystals, upcycled gems, and forgotten wire vines are the royal jewels in Eugene Mayes' (aka Eugene Quaintly’s) kingdom. Weaving history's ornate styles into statement pieces, she breathes new life into pre-loved treasures. It's not just about sparkle, though; it's about community, sustainability, and leaving a lasting impact, one repurposed charm at a time.
Join us as we interview one of ACR’s favorite reuse market artists and the creator of M.A./A.B. Costumery!
When did you start making clothing and accessories?
I started making accessories in middle school, gosh, some twenty years ago. I started with hand beading necklaces and earrings, and was completely untrained in basic jewelry techniques, so this made for some interesting pieces. I started selling to friends and family, then to strangers, and the rest of my products grew from there.
Which aspect of creating is your favorite?
Definitely making something from nothing. And even more, making something from nothing and having people actually wanting to wear it. Having these things compliment an outfit, a feeling, mood, or vibe. It is great to see what something as simple as a pair of earrings can do to uplift someone!
Where do you get your inspiration?
Being a lover of history, much of my work is inspired by infamous Queens in history, more specifically Marie Antoinette, and Anne Boleyn. I am fascinated by the ornate styles of Rococo France, and the dark, almost gothic style of Tudor England. Victorian cameo, pre-colonial Egyptian design, even queens of the screen like Judy Garland or Marlene Dietrich, all styles of history inspire me; however, I always seem to come back to Antoinette and Boleyn.
What is your preferred way to engage with your audience?
I try to engage mostly via social media (Instagram, Youtube, Facebook), just because it is so accessible, however, nothing beats face-to-face as well! Especially when we are all meeting in costume, or clothing that fully allows us to express ourselves. It has been wonderful to watch people try on some of the vintage and costume clothing items I have, and see them absolutely excited for every possibility the item might bring.
How does reuse play a part in your creativity?
Vintage, antique, reusable and thrifted items have not only been so accessible in times of financial difficulties, but have been immensely useful for my full creative outlets. A damaged lone Swarovski earring becomes the pendant for a choker. Used wire vines become a cottagecore crown. Fabric scraps become the laces for a ponytail. These overlooked items have become the essence of creating unique pieces, and I believe they only enhance that feeling of being truly one of a kind both in fashion, and in life. Reuse has played an enormous part in crafting every piece.
What compels you to donate to ACR?
Without sounding too dramatic, donating to ACR feels like a duty to humanity, and my community. In this world it can feel like there is little we can do to heal and repair the environment, our communities, and mental health. Donating to ACR has felt like the least one could do to try to make some sort of impact in their immediate world. It is beyond just reuse or recycling, because I have watched so many people bond over their care for the environment, while beautifully supporting each other’s craft and creativity. You do not see a sour face at ACR. Everyone is excited about getting their hands on bottle caps for a project, or fabric for a new piece. This has shown me that this is not just about reuse, and that has made for a wonderful discovery.
Do you have a favorite ACR find? How did you use it?
A few months ago, I stumbled upon a stack of heart-shaped wedding cake toppers and had the idea to rework them into sun catchers or wall hangings. But there should be more to come from that once I figure out what I am actually doing!
Where can we find out more about your work?
For my jewelry and reuse products you can find me under @goodiesforallqueens on Instagram, and MA/AB on Facebook. And to keep up with my historybounding, travels, and crafts, @quaintlyeugene on Instagram/Youtube and “Quaint Life of Eugene,” on Facebook are best!
