While all artists have a unique creative process, Artist and Vendor Janae Lawrence is blazing a path all her own.
“I like collecting art from anywhere,” Lawrence said,”It doesn’t matter, I could see something on the side of the road and I’ll pick it up. I just like art.”
Seeking out everything from ceramics to dining room chairs, Lawrence said she browses through many yard sales and thrift stores hoping to find items that catch her eye. She then transports her treasures to the Hickory Tree Antique Mall, where she rents a booth to sell her findings as well as her own creations.
“I like to add anything unique or vintage,” Lawrence said, “Old stuff they don’t make anymore.”
In addition to collecting art, Lawrence also enjoys making fabric creations such as pillows, flower broches and blankets. She credits her late grandmother as her greatest teacher when it comes to working with this medium.
“She taught me so much and a lot of my creativity comes from her,” Lawrence said, “She would always be making things like hats and stuff like that. I just always admired that. It gives me a way to still feel her in my presence.”
Lawrence, who previously sold wholesale clothing, said she never dreamed she would have a physical space for all of her findings and creations.
“It feels really good because I never thought I would be able to do it, “Lawrence said, “I just thought it was too out of reach and expensive but I’ve been able to do it.”
It’s no secret that Black artists out of West Virginia are currently experiencing a renaissance period, which brings creatives like Lawrence a sense of excitement and relief.
“It feels great,” Lawrence said, “I love seeing it, being a part of it, being able to support it. It just feels good for it to be here finally.”
Lawrence encourages all artists to put themselves out there and stay dedicated to perfecting their craft.
“Just do it,” Lawrence said, “Don’t be scared or intimidated. You’re going to see other peoples’ work and it’s going to be better than yours but you’re going to get better, as long as you keep doing it. Don’t worry about support because that’s going to come later, even if it’s much later. Don’t worry about it, just keep doing what you love.”
Connect With Janae:
Facebook: Janae Lawrence
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