Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jennifer Buttafuoco. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jennifer , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I was first introduced to the art of basket weaving when I was in fifth grade. Faculty was given the opportunity to host week long programs for the students to teach them about hobbies they loved. My English teacher was actually the one who taught me how to weave.
Basketry, although loved by many, isn’t generally something you’ll find being taught at your local high school or college. Many fine art programs focus on other elements of art- pottery, painting, drawing, sculpture etc. Many of the more complex weaving skills that I’ve acquired over the years have been self taught- either by watching others weave or studying baskets I’ve found in photos or at museums.
The most essential skills I’ve learned over the years are the basic ones. Mastering basic basketry skills and how the materials respond to certain manipulations has laid a very solid foundation for me as I explore new techniques.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
After I took the basic basketry course when I was younger, I explored many other forms of art- photography, drawing and card making. I knew I loved to create, but also knew I’d quickly run out of space if I tried to keep all of my creations. Selling my greeting cards, which featured some of my photos, was my first foray into the retail art world. I did many church and school holiday fairs over the years, eventually making my way into the fine art world when my photos were accepted into a local gallery for their Spring Show. The following year the Gallery invited me to participate in their fine art festival which was the boost of confidence I needed to apply for more. Before I knew it I had a small circuit of shows I faithfully did every year where I sold a mix of basketry and photography. I noticed basketry was not a popular form of art at any festival or fair that I had been to and decided to transition to selling predominantly baskets. In addition to selling my works at art festivals, I decided to seek out local artisan shops to gain more exposure. It wasn’t until 2022 that my ultimate dream had come true- ownership of a small gallery with studio space for me to create. My gallery, Artisans at Middle River, proudly works with local artisans to sell their works as well as host a variety of art workshops.
Although I do weave many traditional patterns, I love to do so using lots of color! I use a variety of different methods to dye the colors and really enjoy that part of the creative process. I also pride myself in creating pieces of art that can stand up to everyday tasks like holding your magazines, toting your vegetables or giving your favorite cat somewhere to sleep. I also offer basket repairs and reproductions. I am currently working on reproducing a woven infant bassinet. The original has been in the family for generations and I am honored to have been asked to reproduce a new one for the next generation.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
The best way to support artists is to start by seeking out local makers who make things you use in your everyday life. Maybe it’s finding a local soap maker, candle maker, jewelry artisan or card maker for example. By switching from big box stores to a local maker you’re not only supporting an artist in their dream, but you’re also directly impacting your local community’s economy. Making the decision to first seek local products you rely on everyday, will begin to change your mindset when it comes time to shop for other items like gifts. Checking out your local farmers market, craft fair or artisan shop are all great places to start.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Being a creative amongst non-creatives can be difficult to say the least. Especially when you proudly announce you’d like to pursue your love for all things creative and it’s met with negative comments and doubt. However, it’s important to remember that these reactions typically stem from a lack of understanding and a fear that you may fail. It can be hard to blindly follow an artist on their journey because their journey and results may not appear to be as monumental or straight forward as more “traditional” paths. Speaking to non-creatives about my goals, aspirations and successes has not always been easy but my focus remains on the positive and I always shift the conversation to the successes I’ve had rather than the dollars that have or haven’t come my way. When you take money off the table, it can be hard to gauge what it means to be successful. As an artist I had a clear path that I wanted to follow: sell my artwork, have my artwork displayed in art galleries and shops, then eventually own my own shop. Along the way I’ve had SO many successes that have had nothing to do with money. A photo of one of my baskets was displayed on the front of a promotional postcard for an art festival, I had a solo photography show, a radio interview, and I’ve learned so many great basketry techniques, just to name a few. If focusing on the positives doesn’t change the tone of the conversation, I always simply say ” I won’t know if I don’t try”. Truer words have never been spoken, and they’re words that apply to anything. A new dish, outfit, movie, job, career change- you’ll never truly know anything until you try.
If you have an artist in your life, I encourage you to remain open minded and take the time to speak to them about their favorite medium. Behind every successful artist are years of celebrating small moments like printing your first business cards, attending your first festival or market, having solo shows or even your first sales. Healthy conversations with you about what they love will also most definitely count as a success on their journey to become a successful artist.
The art world is so vast, so competitive and all around us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.connecticutvalleybaskets.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connecticutvalleybaskets/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CTValleyBaskets/