Nonsense Institute Interview

Say hello to Nonsense Institute.

What is your favorite part about working in this medium?
I love the tactility of items. I have always been attracted to the textures and materials of things. My favorite aspect of plush is that it is art that wants and needs to be touched in order to be fully experienced by its audience. Since we humans need touch, I find that the pairing of this medium with playful design evokes much needed imagination for all ages.

What is your background?
I am the daughter of a botanist and a forester who was raised in Hawaii, Malaysia and Wisconsin. I have been making art since day one which lead me to study Printmaking & Drawing at Washington University in St. Louis. My thesis project consisted mainly of silkscreened plush which I call, "printcrafting."  I am addicted to creative ways of making and have worked as an Anthropologie Display Coordinator and Cake Decorator since graduating. Today I aim to dissolve behavioral age expression through Nonsense Institute and my "printcrafted plush."

Favorite crafty tool?
My favorite crafty tool is a wicked sharp pair of sheers.

Favorite fall activity?
My favorite fall activity is picking apples with my fiance and baking a million apple pies for friends, family & neighbors.

Did you have any inspiration behind the toys you are submitting for Plush You!?
Yes! My mother and father raised egg-laying hens in our backyard when I was in high school and these chickens were quite sneaky. Our flock would scheme to escape their coop while we were away and even stealthily dug a hole under the fence one day. They all escaped one by one and were quite pleased with themselves clucking around the yard when we returned home. I've also had pet cats my whole life and they all have been sassy, curious and skeptical. I feel deeply connected with nature and I imagine the people around me as various animals with glasses always thinking, wondering and listening.