Artist Spotlight: Jeanie Whatley
Each month, we highlight one of the talented artists in our reuse community. This month, it’s jewelry and mixed media artist, Jeanie Whatley of Button and Brass!
Jeanie has been creating all her life and gains inspiration from the materials that surround her. Continue below to learn more about her process and why she loves ACR!
1. When did you start making jewelry and visual art?
My visual art has been a part of my life, my entire life. While abstract has been a favorite since childhood, as I've grown, I love more and more the opportunity to learn and try anything new as well as improve upon techniques and mediums I already utilize.
My work in upcycling jewelry really began about 2 years ago. It has become some of the most fun, satisfying, and rewarding work I've ever done. I love it, and building pieces from unrelated yet complimentary discarded objects brings me so much joy.
2. Which aspect of creating is your favorite?
My favorite aspects of creating are the onslaught of possibilities, challenges, and play. I love seeing the potential of seemingly useless materials that might otherwise be missed or ignored. Even if the idea is crazy or weird, I love the trial and error. I learn something wonderful with every trial and every error. It's fun and wonderful. Creating something from nothing. And if a piece you created speaks to someone else and they love it too, can't ask for more than that.
3. Where do you get your inspiration?
I draw inspiration from potential. The possibilities a project has based solely on the materials available, or lack thereof. The challenge itself is inspiring. I draw from my environment, emotions, personal interests, and pure curiosity.
4. What is your preferred way to engage with your audience?
I'm flexible. (editor’s note: Jeanie is a regular at our Reuse Markets!)
5. How does reuse play a part in your creativity?
I love the idea of breathing life back into something previously seen as having no further value. Creating something new and interesting from discarded materials is too much fun as limitations are now in play depending on what type and in what condition the material is you are using. One really has to dive into the creative process, personally, turning it into a fun puzzle/game/science project. Good times.
6. What compels you to donate to ACR?
This magnificent organization has provided a selection wonderland of project magic in material options, organization, possibilities, thoroughness in departments, treasures a plenty, and prices that feel like a big hug and I couldn't be more grateful to you all for making vital aspects of life affordable. I love this place very much.
7. Do you have a favorite ACR find? How did you use it?
ACR is such an incredible place, and my list of finds is crazy long. This is a really hard question, so I'll choose one. I found these spectacular Tiffany Blue glass chandelier pieces. I've never seen them in that color before! Just beautiful! I then turned them into very fun necklace pendants.
8. Where can we find out more about your work?
Instagram: @buttonandbrass
Facebook: buttonandbrass
