Vendor Spotlight: Meagan Smith

Introducing…

Coming to the Vintage Marketplace this spring is Meagan Smith! She is a talented artist who hand paints all of her work to create one of a kind treasures. See what this free spirit is bringing to the Vintage Marketplace, 2015!

Please describe your business for us.

Unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of art. Hand-painted on reclaimed barn board.

How did the idea for your business come about?

From as young as I can remember, I have had a great love for art, and would spend hours in my room drawing and painting. Having grown up in the country on a farm, I’ve always felt a connection with, and an appreciation for, Mother Nature and her creations. It was after a profound personal loss that I was inspired to create these pieces as a tribute to a special person who always believed in me, took interest in, and encouraged my artistic abilities. I have found comfort and closeness in the wisdom of the trees, the spirits in the sky, and the innocence of the animals. These gifts from Mother Nature have become my subject matter. It was by purpose that I came to paint these images on reclaimed barn board. Like the one which inspired me, each piece holds a story, has character, and has been resilient to life’s challenges.

Why do you love vintage?

I love the idea of everlasting items that have character, history and have survived life.

What was the first vintage item that you bought?

An old pine board kitchen table refinished with the legs cut down to become a coffee table.

Where do you find your pieces or materials used to make them?

At a local wood shop that has all kinds of unique wood from around the world, including all sorts of reclaimed barn board from old, local barns that have been taken down.

What is your favourite vintage piece that you own?

A large, lead glass window, that was reclaimed from a century-old church.

What is your favourite vintage piece for sale?

My painting entitled ‘Wise Old Friend’. This piece was inspired by my beautiful, four-legged friend Jess. She is a thoroughbred Clydesdale who has shown me loyalty, patience and kindness. A true gentle giant.

Is there a specific decade that you admire or gravitate towards?

No, I believe unique treasures can be found and exist from every decade.

If you could go out for a night with someone from any era who would it be?

I would love an evening of conversation with Audrey Hepburn, a lady with elegance, class and a beautiful heart. I greatly admire her work with UNICEF, dedicating the latter years of her life to helping impoverished children in the poorest nations.

What piece(s) are you most excited to show at The Vintage Marketplace?

I’m looking forward to sharing all of my pieces, as each one is personal and meaningful to me. It is my hope that they will be well received and that by giving new life to these old boards, their beauty will be seen again and cherished by many in their homes, for years to come.