Meet the Makers
Marlene Reid*, owner and founder of IslandGirlz Designs and
Unhinged Indie Art and Fashion Boutique in Las Vegas, Nevada.
What’s the story
behind your company?
Years ago I started out in the craft business out of
necessity as a single mom of two sons. Upcycling everyday items into wearable
and functional art came naturally, born out of the need to get as many uses out
of things as possible while spending the least amount of cash! I’m always
amazed by the things people discard. The challenge is in discovering the beauty
and functionality in these cast-offs. IslandGirlz Designs gives new life to old
books, maps, game pieces, bullet casings and other "trash" as part of
our effort to preserve and protect our planet for future generations. Each and
every finished piece incorporates a recycled component which is often the focal
point of an individual design.
What are you
passionate about and how does that inspire your artistic creations?
There are a number of things that fuel my passion and
inspire my line of jewelry & home décor items. First and foremost, I am a
child of the ‘70s and still have that mentality that everyone should take the
opportunity to make a difference in the world. Upcycling “trash” is my way of
trying to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet. I want my grandson,
Brayden to be able to enjoy all the natural wonders the world has to offer.
Secondly, I am my father’s daughter. He was the ultimate recycler, even before
recycling became politically correct. When I was a child, I can remember
cringing when he’d say, “Let’s go for a walk,” which really translated into,
“We’re going to pick up aluminum cans.” Now I smile whenever I think of how
proud he’d be to see what I’ve created out of “trash”. It’s these things that
give me my creative vision and challenge me when designing new pieces.
What is your
favorite product to make?
These days I am obsessed with altered book art sculpture and
steampunk anything!! What’s not to love about being able to indulge two of my
passions--reading and science fiction—and using that passion to create original
works of art and fashion.
What do you find
the most challenging on a day to day basis?
There just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day to
accomplish everything that I want to do. I am constantly challenged in trying
to strike a balance between family, work, creative time, business details and
time to play with my dog, Puzzle.
What one trait has
helped you the most in your business as an artist/maker?
The ability to keep things organized has been the key trait
for me. I juggle so many things that without that single skill, I’d be sinking
in quicksand.
What do you think
is more important, talent or drive and why?
If I’ve learned one thing in all my years as a creative
person, it’s that you must have the drive to take your passion to the next
level. I’ll be the first to admit that for years I only half-heartedly
attempted to make the jump from hobbyist to business person. Then several years
ago an acquaintance took one of my creative ideas and turned it into a
semi-successful business. That was the wake-up call I needed. To make a long
story short: Talent is wasted without drive.
What is the
toughest lesson you've learned and how did you learn it?
The toughest lesson I’ve learned is to have faith in myself.
Fortunately, I’ve been blessed with two wonderful sons who have always believed
that I am someone with special gifts. Their support and the support of a very
special group of girlfriends helped me find the strength to believe in “me”.
What is the one
piece of advice you have for other artists/makers?
Believe in yourself and follow your dreams for life is too
short for regrets. You know that saying: “You can make it happen if only you
believe”--it really is true.
*Marlene has been featured in several
local publications and participates in juried art shows all over the western
United States. Additionally, she is a community activist holding numerous
volunteer positions and organizing events for various local and national
charitable organizations.
