An Interview with Artist Andrea Fischer
We’ve been following Andrea Fischer’s art on Instagram for awhile, and we love it! She has a distinct eye for color, form, and texture mixed with her focus on recycling and sustainability in the fashion industry, and we just knew it was a match made in heaven! In anticipation of Andrea’s big October First Friday installation here at the store, we’re continuing our artist interview series. It’s a great look into the mind of a really unique artist and we’re sure you’ll love it. Enjoy!
Strawberry Mountain: How would you describe your art/craft?
Andrea Fischer: I am a recycled fiber artist. My traveling immersive installation asks viewers to indulge in an altered whimsical reality valued by recycled yarn. My color experiments mingle with various rug making techniques to create one of a kind sculptures. This single, gaudy material buries existing surfaces, inviting the audience to experience an obscure sanctuary through more tactile senses beyond the eye.
SM: Why do you do what you do?
AF: I am addicted — I am truly obsessed — with creating fiber art. It started as a coping skill that I used to thrive as a person with Bipolar disorder. It has since integrated itself as a valuable piece of my everyday life and helped me recover from my PTSD. Over time, I like to believe it has lightened the environment for others as well.
SM: What is your artistic background?
AF: BFA in Photography from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, self taught seamstress, rug and vintage textile restoration.
SM: What do you want people to know about you as a person and as an artist?
AF: Almost all of the materials I use are recycled and just about everything I make is one of a kind. I search and slowly collect my materials from recycled art stores, estate sales, and second hand stores. It is tempting at times to purchase new when a specific color is needed, but the variety of materials I use is beneficial for creating 1-of-1 artwork. There is something magical for me about creating a successful piece of unique artwork out of GARBAGE (unwanted materials.)
SM: What inspires your work?
AF: The desire to keep busy hands, the experiments of color palettes and the problem solving required with using limited materials.
SM: Who inspires you and why?
AF: I am inspired by those who rock their own style. Those who challenge the norms and wear their clothing with confidence. I am inspired by those who have rocked the same pieces year after year and value the clothing in their closet.
SM: How would you describe your personal style of dress?
AF: Recycled! A combination of unisex workware and 1970’s floral gems. My minimalist wardrobe is full of vintage, and clothing handmade by myself and my instagram friends. I have repaired and altered my wardrobe over the last 5+ years and most of my pieces are interchangeable. Almost everything is paired with the same dusty pair of the most comfortable Doc Martens.
SM: Who are your fashion icons?
AF: I try not to keep fashion icons. I found that it furthers my desire to purchase new clothing. I strive to distance myself from the world of fast fashion as much as I possibly can.
SM: Are there any projects or goals you are currently working towards that you’d like to share about?
AF: I am working on bringing back my clothing line called Mean People Suck. I make unisex tops from recycled and vintage t-shirts. There are even a couple yarn tops in the mix! I hope to create clothing for all bodies!
Thanks for reading! Like we mentioned, Andrea will be setting up an installation at our store for October’s First Friday and the whole spooky month, so do not miss that! It’s gonna be wiiiiild.
Until next time,
Be excellent to each other
