Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrienne Romine.
Adrienne, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I’ve always been an artist. My earliest memories are of making things. From portable forts to wall-sized paper art installations, I have always immersed myself in the process of creating. After graduating with my BFA in Painting from the University of Central Florida in 2011, I was hired to design and build retail window displays. That job was my first real foray into 3-D construction and I was hooked. One day, I had an epiphany that while I loved my job, I wasn’t quite fulfilled. I wanted to build things with a deeper meaning and purpose. So, in 2012 I quit my job, moved back in with my parents (in Orlando, FL) bought a bunch of used tools on Craigslist and started reading books/watching YouTube videos to learn woodworking. I eventually taught myself enough to gain an entry-level position in a production wood shop nearby and there I continued my education on the job. While I loved learning the craft, I dreamed of the days when I would be able to build the designs that were in my mind. I had notebooks and notebooks full of sketches and plans. In 2015, I moved to Austin and began taking woodworking commissions as a side hustle. It really started with a few here and there. In 2017, my project load was so much that it made sense to quit my part-time job and dive full time into self-employment as a woodworker. In January of 2018, I officially named my studio Half Halt and launched my first product line in the fall. I founded my design studio on principles of sustainability (quality over quantity keeps things out of landfills, using sustainably harvested lumber, using low VOC finishes, etc.) and with an awareness that aesthetics can affect our moods. I create pieces that are meant to be well used and loved for generations.
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 make contemporary furniture from wood and solid surface. I use a combination of hand tools and machines throughout the process. I’m motivated by a passion for design and a faith in its ability to affect how we feel. In all areas of my life, I try to live up to the Vivian Westwood quote: “Buy less, choose well, make it last.”
What do you think it takes to be successful as an artist?
Success is being able to create projects that I find compelling and push my creative boundaries.
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 work can be seen on my website: www.halfhaltstudio.com and my Instagram @halfhaltstudio
Contact Info:
- Website: www.halfhaltstudio.com
- Email: info@halfhaltstudio
- Instagram: @halfhaltstudio
Image Credit:
Jesse Walsh
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston 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.
