Artist Spotlight: Mikie Taylor
Every month, we highlight one of the amazing artists in our reuse community. This month, ACR has the privilege of spotlighting Mikie Taylor from Batcat Craft who is a needlepoint artist and weaver as well as a Core Volunteer at ACR! Learn more about Mikie and how secondhand materials inspire her work in this interview!
When did you learn needlepoint and how did you start using recycled materials in your work?
In June of 2020, I bought my first Bargello book, which I quickly started doing every day during my free time. I eventually moved on from just using the traditional tapestry wool to all kinds of different yarns/fibers (which can be quite expensive!). When I started volunteering at Austin Creative Reuse in August of 2023, I found the yarn section and began using secondhand yarn for my projects, which gives me more options for materials I can use to create (and saves money). I also discovered all the donated plastic canvas, and even have found some secondhand picture frames to use for my projects.
Do you have other creative hobbies?
I have had many creative hobbies throughout my life, but right now, other than needlepoint, it is mostly weaving (also with many secondhand fibers). I have a rigid heddle loom, and also will sometimes do circular weavings. I also make a diorama from time to time, which is super fun!
Which aspect of creating is your favorite?
I love the very beginning when I am first starting to sift through my materials and am getting a flood of ideas!
Where do you get your inspiration?
I have a very colorful and eclectic craft room in my house where the walls are full of art and the shelves and cubbies are full of little trinkets and craft supplies. I spend a lot of time piddling around in there, and something usually ends up striking me after a while.
What is your preferred way to engage with your audience?
I like it best when people are able to see my art in person. It is not really possible to see all of the colors and textures of the work if you’re just looking at a photo.
How does reuse play a part in your creativity?
I rarely allow myself to buy new yarn anymore - I use leftovers, scraps, and what I buy secondhand from Austin Creative Reuse. These parameters give me focus and challenge my mind, both of which assist me in the creative process.
How does volunteering at ACR impact your creative practice?
I love processing all kinds of materials and draw inspiration from all of the fascinating things people have donated. When I am using donated materials, it always makes me feel curious and think about who may have owned it and what their intention was for it. It’s nice to let the mind wander into these thoughts while I am working on a project.
Do you ever donate materials to ACR? If so, what compels you to donate?
Yes, if I have any supplies I no longer have use for, or have been sitting unused for too long, I will donate them. I like the idea that someone else can find something to do with them so they don’t go to waste.
Do you have a favorite ACR find? How did you use it?
ACR was the first place I saw 5-count plastic canvas, which was the solution to a problem I had been having when using rug canvas to stitch with super bulky yarn. Now I have a bunch of pieces stitched in the 5-count plastic canvas and I really like them!
Where can we find out more about your work?
Email mikie.batcatcraft.com@gmail.com
Instagram @mikiesaurus
Etsy batcatcraft.etsy.com