Exploring Creative Reuse
How it started
I hadn't heard of the concept until after I started working with found objects and upcycled materials (like in my Litter Landscapes and Floral Rearrangements). I knew there would be other artists out there doing similar things, and I was curious about the right terms to adopt; a vaguely-worded internet search introduced me to creative reuse centers.
These secondhand stores specializing in art and craft supplies can come in different sizes and styles, but all benefit their communities as a place to divert usable creative materials away from the waste stream and offer them at low or no cost for others to use.
This really resonates with me, as an eco-minded artist/mom with a stash of still-good supplies that I would love to pass along!
If you want to learn more about creative reuse centers and why they are awesome, there's a particular podcast I highly recommend:
How it's going
After further research confirmed there's nothing similar around here, I decided to start a little shop to serve southern Illinois. I'm claiming a bit of vendor space at the wonderful place where I've sold my art for years.
I'll be going through my personal stash of supplies that I know I won't be using anymore (weirder stuff awaits, if you follow my journey as the Witch of the Waste). My kiddo has outgrown a lot of things too. As any crafter (and parent) knows, lots of leftovers accumulate as we dabble in new hobbies and creative outlets!
There's a surplus of certain things that I would like to offer in a "little free library" style, where people can take what they need and bring what they don't: crayons, pencils, paintbrushes, stickers, fabric scraps, random ribbons, strings and more.
My goal isn't to get rich here (I have a day job that I actually like!) I honestly just want to cover the space's monthly rent and keep usable art supplies out of landfills. If this venture does well and keeps growing, I would love to send proceeds to local art and environmental organizations or look into becoming an official non-profit.
How to help
The best ways to support creative reuse centers are by spreading the word and donating your unused or still-usable creative supplies you have hanging around the house!