Sunday, June 7, 2009

THE JUNK COLLECTOR


I love sorting through all the junk I collect to use in my art, though it's not quite as exciting as foraging at flea markets and second hand stores to find it in the first place.


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"Whether we call it collecting, scavenging, accumulating, scrounging, gathering, or junking, its all about the urge to surround ourselves with our stuff, our loot, our stash, our hoard, our mother lode of treasures, and to reap the inspiration that these sometimes inexplicably iresistible objects provide."

" Whether the collected objects are actually used in works of art or merely provide inspiration, the synchronicity between Artist and Object is undeniable."

Quotes by Lynne Perrella from her wonderful book Art Making, Collections and Obsessions.


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54 comments:

  1. UnknownJune 7, 2009 at 4:40 AM

    Treasure!! I love this post. I do try not to bring half the beach home with me from my walks, but sometimes I just can't resist.

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  2. lyleJune 7, 2009 at 5:33 AM

    I love it! the necklace is wonderful! lynne's book is wonderful too! and when I look at it I think I dont begin to collect stuff! lyle

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  3. 3rdEyeMuseJune 7, 2009 at 6:01 AM

    the photo collage is a brilliant way to show your totems at a glance! (but please don't stop sharing the lovely details, too).

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  4. Crafty Green PoetJune 7, 2009 at 6:43 AM

    what a beautiful totem. i love collecting junk too but need to learn better how to use a lot of it...

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  5. HeatherJune 7, 2009 at 7:24 AM

    Ahhhh another totem! It is so wonderful to read through all the posts I've missed while I was gone, although I must admit - snakes!

    I wandered in the woods around my house a lot and thought one day I was sitting down on an old log when it moved - a big black snake! I'm still not thrilled about them, but a garter snake (a small harmless garden snake) doesn't bother me too much as long as the dogs don't find it!

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  6. The Weaver of GrassJune 7, 2009 at 7:38 AM

    I just love your collected objects montages - I shall now go and look if I can find that link and try one myself. Thanks

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  7. megha puNAter"June 7, 2009 at 8:07 AM

    from one collector to another,graet post.

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  8. Karin BartimoleJune 7, 2009 at 8:33 AM

    Robyn, glimpses of your 'junk' make me want to sit on the floor, quietly in a corner, in front of a big box of it, lifting out one piece at a time to touch, smell, see and sort for hours! Then I want to share a cup of tea with you and hear the stories behind each collected wonder :)

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  9. Jeane MyersJune 7, 2009 at 8:49 AM

    this is wonderful Robyn - I love seeing how textured the wood is and the life it gives your totem - and Lynne Perrella uses one of my favorite sayings - 'It seemed like a good idea at the time' - LOL! boy that should be my personal motto!

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  10. ArtSparkerJune 7, 2009 at 11:47 AM

    These are game pieces before they are fixed. Well, it's easy for me to say, but I think a you tube video of the piece with a link, and possibly a little narration, might also be interesting.

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  11. Lisa at GreenbowJune 7, 2009 at 12:41 PM

    I would hate to show some of the stuff I drag home. You raise your loot to the highest realm of display.

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  12. andreaJune 7, 2009 at 2:21 PM

    Oh my. Your work is fantastic. So glad Laura posted about you!

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  13. Leslie Avon MillerJune 7, 2009 at 5:21 PM

    Each individual piece is something, but put together the way you do elevates them to poetry; the poetry of ordinary things; the poetry of findings.

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  14. jo horswillJune 7, 2009 at 7:04 PM

    The magic is in the "something that one feel's" about each and every piece one collects, don't you think.
    And yes, bringing these pieces together in the way you do Robyn, is just "magical".
    Love the quote too, it applies here as well :)

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  15. SethJune 7, 2009 at 8:58 PM

    Collecting junk can turn into an art itself...just as you seem to be able to turn each post on your blog into art as well. Your totems continue to amaze me.

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  16. AnonymousJune 7, 2009 at 10:51 PM

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  17. BluJune 7, 2009 at 10:52 PM

    What a beautiful woman you created there. It is great to know that these lovley items, in French things are (trucs) can be enjoyed on the totem.

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  18. Maya Sara MatthewJune 8, 2009 at 3:46 AM

    Collectors are a breed unto themselves.Its only one collector who can appreciate anothers joy humble or bizarre the objects collected.
    Must try that collage thigy would help with my work too.

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  19. Ahipara GirlJune 8, 2009 at 8:16 AM

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  20. Ahipara GirlJune 8, 2009 at 8:17 AM

    Hi dear Robyn. It's wonderful to come a visiting and read about snakes and see beautiful collages of your latest works. To hear about your inspiration and processes. I'm bogged down with a my beautiful baby boy and finding my new-old flow at being full-time mum of a baby again. I love the way the universe works - I got this book at the beginning of the year, the one with Nina in it by Lynne. I got it because Nina is in it. She should write a book. So should you. I love coming here and being reminded of how much of a joy collecting is. It just comes so naturally and effortlessly. No King Cobra's in New Zealand though. Only worms. Little ones. No comparison really. So good to hear your voice Robyn.

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  21. TeriJune 8, 2009 at 4:08 PM

    These are absolutely incredible! I want one!! Do you sell? And, how large is this piece? I know you say "totem" but when I think "totem" I think large. (And, I can't do the metric conversion so well either---another thing we never learned via our school system here in the US. Big mistake in my opinion. I love how you have displayed it and would love to see photos of ALL the niches and what they have inside of them. I am a collector of just the same kind of stuff!!!

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  22. UnknownJune 8, 2009 at 5:32 PM

    "the synchronicity between Artist and Object is undeniable." SO True! I wonder if it is because we create objects that we have such a strong urge to collect them.

    Great post.

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  23. ArtPropelledJune 8, 2009 at 6:42 PM

    Annie, if I lived close to the sea my garden would be a beach by now.

    Lyle, Lynns book is a constant delight isn't it?

    Michelle, detail photos especially for you :-)

    Crafty Green Poet, collections tend to get bugger quicker when you have an excuse to use them in your work.

    Heather, looking forward to hearing about your trip!

    Weaver, you'll become addicted ...its such fun!

    Thanks Megha....will pop over soon.

    Karin, that would be such a treat.... wish we lived closer.

    Jeane, "It seemed like a good idea at the time"...could be my motto too :-)

    ArtSparker, worth a thought when I get Broadband.

    Lisa, you'd be surprised how many people would like to see your gatherings.

    Thanks Andrea.

    Thanks Leslie, ....the poetry of gatherings.

    Jo, yes the magic is in every piece one finds.....and a memory tagged to each one too.

    Seth, thanks so much.

    Thanks Blu, I wonder what a totem is in French.

    Embellisher, you will love the Picaso collage feature.

    Rachelle, I so agree that Nina should write a book. I see you have new posts for me to read :-)

    Karine, hmmm the hen before the egg....or the egg before the hen?

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  24. leanne pizioJune 9, 2009 at 5:35 AM

    Beautiful Totem!
    I love everyone of your pieces. The peace in this ones face is divine.
    And I love the quote. I have quite a hoard just updated with water chestnut pods from the beach on Lake Ontario, NY. They are crazy little devil pods that will pierce your feet but beautiful nature sculptures all the same.

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  25. KatherineJune 9, 2009 at 9:06 AM

    Beautiful Totem Robyn. The stuff that went into it is completely captivating in it's own rite and then put together, yummy. I love the quotes about gathering. When I go for my walks along the paths and dirt roads where I live I always find my self 'shopping', coming home with bones, sticks and rocks.

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  26. ShaylaJune 9, 2009 at 10:36 AM

    Your sculptures are so beautiful (very cool necklace on this one) and that sounds like a wonderful book. I love the quote about syncronicity between object and artist. Sounds like magic making.

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  27. ArtPropelledJune 9, 2009 at 11:19 AM

    Thanks Leanne. The water chestnut pods sound intriguing.

    Thanks Katherine, half the fun is in the gathering.

    Shayla, thank you. The book is enough to make one drool.

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  28. JudyJune 10, 2009 at 12:30 AM

    Brilliant - love it as always - thats a great quote from Lynne.

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  29. AnakaJune 10, 2009 at 6:33 AM

    Well it's one thing to collect stuff, and another thing to do cool things with it like you've done. You've inspired me to do something with all those boxes full of things I can't part with.

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  30. CathyJune 10, 2009 at 7:28 AM

    Those fascinating items that go to make your beautiful totems could never be called junk Robyn. They are definitely treasures. I love the gentle, mysterious faces you carve on your totems too. I have only just realised that you have some wonderful photos of your artwork on Flickr. Just off to have a look now.

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  31. YoliJune 10, 2009 at 8:28 AM

    This is so pretty.

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  32. Blue Sky DreamingJune 10, 2009 at 9:05 AM

    I like this photo and it shows your work well...the three sections is perfect, showing a close up, a distant whole shot and then another close up...good work!!
    I so love seeing the detail!

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  33. Lady PJune 10, 2009 at 10:00 PM

    I am very fascinated with your work and "collages" - when the latest totem image was first loading, I thought that was a metal and bead necklace that I would want to wear myself! silly me

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  34. Beverly Ash GilbertJune 11, 2009 at 5:45 AM

    Your totem is beautiful - I love the subtle colors and fabulous necklace.

    I flipflop between being inspired by all of the materials around me and drowning in them. Organization is the key to retaining the inspiration part!

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  35. Leanne PizioJune 11, 2009 at 6:37 AM

    Hey Robyn,
    I brought home hand fulls of these little devils. If you would like some write me your address and I will send them on their way to you.
    If you put them together in a bag and shake them they make a wonderful sound.

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  36. queencraftygirlJune 11, 2009 at 6:39 AM

    Hi Robyn,
    I love your fabulous and beautiful totem! It's so inspiring...it's so much fun finding all the little treasures in each compartment. Love it!

    Great post and great job,
    Queeny

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  37. Pamela Terry and EdwardJune 11, 2009 at 9:30 AM

    It seems always the "found" materials that are the most fun. And the most original. I love this!

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  38. ArtPropelledJune 11, 2009 at 12:06 PM

    Thanks Judy. I've written many of Lynnes quotes down and as for the book....so inspiring!

    Anaka, I thought that by using all my collected bits and pieces it would be a way of cutting down but instead I've now got a great excuse for collecting more.

    Thanks Cathy. I'll nip over to see your Flickr photos soon too.

    Thanks Yoli.

    Thanks Mary Ann. It's quite a useful feature on Picaso.

    Lady P, I had to think twice about making it for me or the totem :-)

    Beverly, don't tell me! I'm busy drowning in all my gatherings at the moment. I definitely need to pack some of it away.

    Leanne, my address is on it's way!

    Thanks Queeny, I've missed "seeing" you around.

    Pamela, my "found" materials are getting costly.

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  39. julie kingJune 11, 2009 at 2:05 PM

    it's tunning, robyn!! just wonderful! i would really enjoy seeing one of your pieces in person> i'm sure the photos can't quite give them the awe and wonder they deserve.

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  40. Ro BruhnJune 11, 2009 at 4:05 PM

    I love collecting and admiring other people's junk. What a great way you have developed, with your totems, of displaying yours. You turn junk into treasure.

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  41. rivergardenstudioJune 11, 2009 at 4:43 PM

    Oh, I have a feeling each piece of "junk" you find and keep is a treasure... I love the necklace as well, and the way you share this beautiful totem... Roxanne

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  42. IstvanBloggin'June 12, 2009 at 5:42 AM

    Great piece, i like its meditative details very much. Have a great weekend!

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  43. steviewrenJune 12, 2009 at 8:01 AM

    I love love love your work. I've often wished that so many miles didn't separate us. I'd love to see your totems in person.

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  44. UnknownJune 12, 2009 at 11:10 AM

    Your junk collection is any art connoisseur delight Robyn.

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  45. Poetic ArtistJune 12, 2009 at 10:25 PM

    Oh such beautiful junk or treasues you have and yes they become art..
    I have so many little treasures and one day I will use them LOL
    Or maybe I will send you some of it....Thanks for sharing.
    Katelen

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  46. DebrinaJune 13, 2009 at 3:15 AM

    Just found you via Lyle. My goodness, but your work is marvellous. And I love what inspires you too! I'll be back, for sure....

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  47. ArtPropelledJune 13, 2009 at 8:08 AM

    Julie, Thank you. I must admit I find it difficult to take a photo that shows all the texture and subtle colouring.

    Ro, it's fun isn't it?I'm thinking of all those little drawers you fill with your finds.

    Roxanne, there were quite a few pieces that I battled to let go of for this totem. The old brass and porcelain elevator button for example.

    Thanks Thinker.

    Stevie, Thank you!

    T&S, ...and the best part is the searching..

    Katelen, one man's junk is another man's treasure. My daughter rolls her eyes at some of the things I bring home.

    Debrina, thanks so much!

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  48. kendaleeJune 13, 2009 at 11:40 PM

    I've often wished that I was one of those people who doesn't attach to stuff but I think collectors are born that way and it doesn't help to resist :) I love that you are inspired by yours and create such beautiful pieces with them! And I also love the close up shots of your totems Robyn. I know it's probably not the done thing but they make me want to touch - everything looks so beautifully textured and tactile.

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  49. Poetic ArtistJune 16, 2009 at 8:49 PM

    All your collections of things, turn into beautiful art..
    Katelen

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  50. india flintJune 17, 2009 at 5:52 AM

    hi Robyn...something tells me you'd enjoy my collection as well

    except you'd be creating something WITH it whereas i wrap cloth around the stuff with leaves so that the bits leave their magic on it...

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  51. ArtPropelledJune 18, 2009 at 4:25 PM

    Kendalee, wood just begs to be touched. I insist!

    Thanks Katelen.

    India, I know I would love your collection....and I love the magic you create.

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  52. binduJune 26, 2009 at 7:37 AM

    Your totems are so gorgeous, I could stare at them forever. Would love to see one in person some time ..

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  53. AnonymousJuly 2, 2009 at 5:38 AM

    now that would make a great meme.. strangest thing I ever brought hone for art.

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  54. Lisa DariaJuly 30, 2011 at 5:18 AM

    I would love to know what the strangest things are people have brought home - I saw an exhibit of found shopping lists at the ICA in Boston, that was such a great idea - and surprisingly fascinating.

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