Staff Spotlight: Nicole Annone
Each month we highlight one of the wonderful folks who make the magic happen at ACR.
This month we're spotlighting Processing Reuse Specialist, Nicole Annone. Nicole is one of the newest members of the Processing Team and we're so happy to have them on board! In a very short amount of time, they've become a master pricer and have impressed us with their killer collage work and friendly doodle drawings. We're so happy to have them on the team!
Read on to learn more about Nicole, their favorite forms of creative expression, and how they made their way to Austin from the Carolinas!
How did you find Austin Creative Reuse?
In early 2023, I moved from Greenville, SC to Austin, TX. I packed my entire life into my 2012 Ford Escape. Many of my art supplies didn’t make the cut. One of my first goals was to replenish my collection. I was excited to find ACR, and it exceeded my expectations. My collages are comprised of vintage photographs, magazine excerpts, etc. almost solely sourced from ACR.
What’s your favorite part about working at ACR?
I enjoy the ability to exist as my authentic self, alongside many queer and neurodivergent people. This is a great departure from the 4 years I spent working in mental health and support services, where I needed to be a blank slate in order to be effective. Amidst a lot of life changes, the reliability of clinking as I price a bin of glass or the monotony of breaking down boxes have been grounding.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve found donated to ACR?
Novelty pins, including one that says “Hell on Wheels.” My aunt has the phrase tattooed on her foot, as it’s what my grandfather called her growing up. I liked the serendipitousness of it, a calling card to our shared rebellion.
Are you an artist, crafter, or maker? What mediums do you work with? What kinds of arts and crafts do you like to do?
I primarily consider myself a collage artist. I also use oil pastels, (finger)paint and draw. I am also an avid journaller and decorate each one with stickers that embody how I’ve been feeling, making a collage of sorts.
What do you do when you’re not working at ACR/what other hobbies do you have?
Poetry, (solo and partner) dance, visiting Austin Public Libraries and nature preserves and baking.
Are you from Austin? If so, tell us about your experience here! If not, where are you from and what brought you here?
I am from The Carolinas. I grew up in Weaverville, NC (15 min outside of Asheville). I moved to Greenville, SC in 5th grade, attended college there (B.A. in Psychology from Furman University) and stayed until my early 20s. I wanted to start anew in a place that had queer community and a vivid art/dance scene.
