I have created art in various media all my life, but getting it into other people’s homes and gardens is a different story! This phase came from my design and mold making experience in the architectural precast industry. I decided to focus on learning and using internet resources to sell my art, as well as local craft shows. I am enjoying the experience of connecting and networking globally with people who love art, make art and do crafting.
Mino Re
I was born in Italy.
I have four wonderful cats.
I have tried all my life to find ways of using my artistic knowledge and skills, and yes, you can do it!
I paint murals on my walls.
What got you started crafting?
I have created art in various media all my life, but getting it into other people's homes and gardens is a different story! This phase came from my design and mold making experience in the architectural precast industry. I decided to focus on learning and using internet resources to sell my art, as well as local craft shows. I am enjoying the experience of connecting and networking globally with people who love art, make art and do crafting.
What is your source of inspiration?
Everything I see. OK, not everything. I am inspired by intricate designs like fractals and paisleys and spirals and Celtic knots. And by antiquities, the Greco-Roman classics as well as the strong designs of Native American and Meso-American cultures. My work is constantly evolving and changing as I explore new things.
What have you made recently?
I was commissioned to create an eagle to be reproduced on 4 bridge abutment panels over 17 feet high. Believe it or not, I did most of the work sitting in my recliner! It started, like all my work, with a pen and ink sketch. When that was approved, I made a clay model with a 1:1728 scale (13 1/2 inches instead of feet) and then molded it in rubber.
I used that mold to create a rough plaster piece, which then allowed me to carve the intricate detail needed to capture the spirit and dignity of this eagle. When I had finished, my carved eagle was scanned and used to create a full-size computer-driven carving in foam to be used as a model. That model was then molded with 25 gallons of rubber and used to cast the four concrete eagles for the bridge. To me, this is a great example of bringing technology and art together. To have created a full-size model directly would have taken warehouse space and many extra weeks of work.
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
Last year I sold my work at several local craft shows, and plan to do that again. I also have started an Etsy shop and am trying hard to promote my work there. It's always very exciting when someone places an order!
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
When I was selling my art 20 years ago it was a different world. Fewer choices, almost no internet, minimal importing and mass-production, unless you count those beautiful paintings on black velvet. The big difference I see now is that we are all bombarded every day with images and choices. I choose to support handmade because I choose to support the artist, the individual, as directly as I can.
Find Me
Locationnear Baltimore, Maryland
Email Address
Mino Re
Personal Website
http://www.innovativeartworks.net/
Store Website
http://www.etsy.com/shop/InnovativeStoneArt
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