Who are you?I am Janine Maves and on Etsy I do business as AltheaP and TalkingDog.
Why did you choose your shop name?
I studied art, but then worked in an office for many years. Most people I knew had no idea I was a visual artist. When a mentor started pushing me to enter shows, I was terrified, and came up with an alter ego: Althea Peregrine. Althea has a certain pushy broad quality I’m lacking.
Where are you located?
Raleigh, NC, between NCSU and Meredith College
What do you create?
I do it all! Most of the art I produce takes the form of silk paintings and assemblages, but I’ve studied metalwork and sculpture in recent years. Last year, I did a mosaic on my bathroom floor.
What is your favorite place to visit in the Triangle?
Cameron Village Library. I read everything and listen to books on tape in my studio. What inspires you?
Dreams, walks, conversation. I love museums and just spent a week wandering around the Smithsonian and National Gallery in DC. My biggest inspiration is ancient art history.
Where do you create?
My daughter’s old bedroom is now my studio.
What is the most time consuming part of your craft/art?Setting dyes, steaming, wrapping, ironing. One of my favorites is the series of commemorative hangings I make from silk. I used a laser printer to make copies of old photos onto silk, then use those photos as centerpieces for silk paintings.
What is your favorite place to sell your items?
Oh, I’d so much rather be in my studio than selling!
How do you acquire new clients?
I’ve learned a lot from other members in Etsy forums about using the web to network. I’ve got pages on wordpress, goZabo, trunkt, squidoo, (‘though I can’t say I’m very good at keeping them all up to date!)
What do you do when you are not creating?
Read, catch up with friends and wa-a-ay too much time in Etsy chats and forums.
A very dear friend is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. She’d been in remission for eight years. I’ve been spending time with her, running errands, and keeping up a blog with her progress updates.
--If you'd like to read more about Janine's life and work, check out her blog.
Lovely interview!
ReplyDeleteEveline / Timeless on Etsy.
I love Janine's work! She is a wonderful artist and your team must be very proud of having her as a member! Thanks for featuring her and Janine, keep up the good work. Jstinson.etsy.com
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful article about a lovely artist! I love seeing the different creations Janine produces..each so unique and beautiful!
ReplyDeletePat
I lost my comment because the word verification wasn't functioning. Starting over...much shorter! Thank you for this wonderful look into one of our favorite people and artists. We consider ourselves fortunate that our paths have crossed with hers and I am sure your team members do as well.
ReplyDeleteHappy Earth Day NC Triangle Artists!
Great interview, Janine! I had no idea you could print onto silk. Wow!
ReplyDeleteYou do such beautiful work. Thank you so much for sharing, and best wishes to your friend...I hope her battle is victorious through and through.
Casey
(acrossthepond)
I've got to commend DinnerTimeChimes. This article is so beautifully written, linked and presented, it just wows me. Thanks for making me so proud!
ReplyDelete