Where's My Whip?

Okay. I have to get this out. I always cringe a bit when I hear people refer to vintage finds as “junk”. Or even worse, when people refer to the activity of searching for reclaimed gems with the shortened verb… junkin’. In my studio, that term, and every conceivable derivative, just seems to cheapen the salvage experience.  And it certainly is not a phrase I would ever use to describe the incredible end result of our creative endeavors.

You see, for me the search for great vintage materials actually starts with shedding what I call the “junk” bias. When I’m on the hunt for great objects, it’s critical that I crank my brain into a hyper-discovery mode that views objects not as trash or junk, but as unappreciated or raw material. A bit like a rogue archeologist approaching a new discovery, or at least that’s how I’ve romanced it in my head. Nonetheless, I try to use a setting that allows me to sift through hundreds of pieces of visual information free from “junk” judgment. This mindset not only helps me acquire great finds, but it makes the search that much more fun. Here are three keys I use to reset my thinking before releasing my inner creative bloodhound.

1.)    Regarding furniture: Look past the color or paint finish and focus on the structural integrity of the find. In these pieces, I look to appreciate the detail and overall design, rather than its current cosmetic condition. Some of my best finds were the ones others dismissed for the most superficial of reasons. If you lack the technical knowledge of how to refurbish furniture…hit the web or attend a local workshop. Possessing  the knowledge to transform these pieces makes the search more enjoyable.

 

2.)    Think color: While you’re on the hunt, think in terms of a visual theme regardless of a design style. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve included found objects from different periods or clashing styles in the same room. Keep in mind that a great color scheme is a room’s visual thread. The trick to good reclaimed design is finding creative ways to pair objects that seemingly have no business hanging out together in the same place. Color helps bridge the style gap. And having confidence in your color direction helps increase your level of bravery when purchasing on the fly.

3.)    Sweat the small stuff: I find that over time, some of my best finds were ones I used to create great groupings or collections. It may take some time, but the result is often interesting historical visuals that give environments thoughtful and authentic touches. It’s difficult to finish a room without elements like these. In my experience, when people have difficulty finishing a room, it’s because they’re trying to complete it with junk and not tailored objects of interest.

So there you have it. No offense to the Junk Gypsies or Dumpster Divas out there, I’m just trying to elevate the conversation a bit. And I will concede that everyone has a different way to describe the start to the transformative process that is the reclaimed and repurposed. But for this artist, I’m way more Indiana Jones than Sanford & Son.  Better get crackin’.