Today we’d like to introduce you to Wendy Birchmire.
Wendy, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
Creating art has always been part of my life. My mother was an artist so, from an early age, she enrolled me in art classes. As a youngster, I took courses in pottery, painting, drawing, enameling, and welding found objects. At a very young age, I designed children’s fabric patterns for a well-known material manufacturer.
During my work years as a Guidance Counselor, I did not find enough time to be creative. After I retired, I took classes in mosaics, stained glass, blown glass, fused glass, and lampworking.
People might say that I am “computer addicted”. Because I find computer hardware to be artistic. I locate old computers and computer components and disassemble them. I see this task as being similar to a challenging puzzle. Finding the tiny screws or other fasteners that release the mechanisms is tricky and time consuming, but it fascinates me. Sometimes I go to the MIT Flea and purchases electronic parts that are nonfunctional, but attractive to the eye. From there I upcycle them into clocks, mirrors or other unique designs. I also “upscale” used picture frames and create some art from new materials.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
Eco-friendly art can be defined as products made from recycled materials that contain glass, wood, metal or plastic that is reclaimed and made into something new. I try to contribute to the environment by making some of my artwork with recycled materials.
The upcycling process begins with taking apart discarded computers and peripherals. Using the most attractive pieces, I can showcases the stunning components in my mirrors and clocks. The final product becomes a piece of art that is suitable for display in the home or business office. Some people have labeled it “Geek Chic!”
All of the picture frames that I create have been discarded or passed on to thrift stores. Many were disposed of because the glass was cracked. By taking the glass from an intact, but perhaps unattractive frame, I can cut it and use it in a more desirable and workable frame. After adding bits of glass, china, or porcelain, the frame comes alive as a piece of art.
How can artists connect with other artists?
Join your community art association.
Take an advanced class in whatever medium you work in.
Join an appropriate group on Meetup.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
Dedham Square Artist Guild – Dedham, MA
Blue Cloud Gallery – Somerville, MA
Various art shows
Contact Info:
- Website: oakhillmosaics.com
- Email: wab@birchmire.com
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
