Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Gauthreaux.
Jamie, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I’ve been a designer in Austin, Texas since 2005, specializing in residential interiors. Throughout my career I’ve always had a strong interest in textiles, and after a trip to Morocco in 2010 that affinity evolved into a complete pillow obsession – and SHOPsteelfeathers was born! The colors, patterns and textures of Morocco were so fresh and visually stimulating and inspiring to me, and I’ve continued to travel the world looking for one-of-a-kind vintage, hand-loomed or hand-embroidered textiles. I’ve searched in Thailand, Peru, Mexico & France, and the bucket list continues to grow. India is next up! My new focus is vintage designer silk scarves with their beautiful colors and patterns. Each one has such a story to tell.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I’ve always delighted in the creative process of creating a beautiful living space and my pillows are an extension of that. I see each one as a work of art for the home. It’s so rewarding to discover gorgeous textiles from around the world that otherwise may never be seen nor appreciated and then transform them into luxurious, beautifully crafted pillows that will be enjoyed every day.
The stereotype of a starving artist scares away many potentially talented artists from pursuing art – any advice or thoughts about how to deal with the financial concerns an aspiring artist might be concerned about?
Yes, unfortunately, following your passion can be a financial challenge! The creation of SHOPsteelfeathers has required quite a lot of investment. The money spent on travel is of course the exciting part. But then there are also the expenses of purchasing and shipping the textiles, seamstress services, down inserts, storage… not to mention website development, PR and marketing. I’ve been fortunate, thus far, to support myself 100% with my design business, Steel Feather Interiors. But as my life and the interior design field change over the years, I’m always exploring fresh ideas for how to sustain and grow my pillow business….my passion….my art.
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?
My pillows are for sale 24/7 on SHOPsteelfeathers.com. And for Round Top Antique Show shoppers, I’ll be back at the Arbors venue March 27-April 6 with a booth full of new treasures!
Contact Info:
- Address: 2800 Waymaker Way, Unit 18
Austin, Texas 78746 - Website: SHOPsteelfeathers.com
- Phone: 5124684915
- Email: jgauthreaux@me.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/steelfeathers_shop/
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/steelfeathers/
- Other: www.SHOPsteelfeathers.com
Image Credit:
Bill Lanier, Reeves Gauthreaux
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