Troy Lacey

Troy with her work

 

Who is Troy Lacey?

I am a dreamer. I feel life has many twists and turns that are unexpected. The one thing I can depend on is my imagination. Being and artist allows me to explore my inner self.

I have studied acting and fine art in college. I have written movie scripts and I produce fiber art.

 

When did you decide to become a maker?

My parents nurtured my creative side. They searched for a School that would concentrate on enhancing my personal abilities. I attended Highland Hall School in California. The creator of the Waldorf School was Rudolf Steiner. The goal of the Waldorf School is to enable students to choose their individual path through life.

 

Bubble Purse – Felted and Crocheted

 

What made you choose the materials that you work with?

I love natural fibers. When I spin wool, I think of the history of the animal. There are farmers that can examine fleeces and know if the ewes were healthy through their cycle of life or recovered from some illness. Being at one with the environment puts life in perspective. I am recycling nature to create my personal story.

 

What other materials would you like to work with?

I would like to learn more about printing on textiles. I think it would be interesting to add a block print to my felted projects or knitted pieces.

 

Felted Bowl- Raven Eating Sumac

 

Where do you get your inspiration?

Post-Impressionism has always inspired me. Vincent Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Paul Gauguin and Pierre Seurat began a moving force to change the perception of what painting should be. The Vibrant colors they created and the raw passion in their work has influenced me in so many ways. I also admire Andrew Wyeth’s ability to capture a moment in time with such clarity.

What motivates you?

I think of new ideas when I workout. The constant movement clears my mind and produces clarity in my life.
I can also access a plethora of on line sources, magazines and books to provide inspiration in this field.

I have been living in Nashville Tennessee for many years. I visit farms and enjoy the beauty of the southern landscape. I love selecting wool to spin or felt. I also socialize with fiber enthusiasts once a month at a spinning meeting.

 

Hand Spun Yarn – Romney Wool

 

Do you create your work in a studio at your home base?

I am lucky to have a studio at my home. I truly like the solitude and the freedom of closing the door to the outside world so I can concentrate on my work.

My husband Mark Lacey also is an artist and constructs amazing guitars in our basement. He has sold his instruments all over the world. Many books and magazines have featured Mark’s guitars.

 

Wall Hanger - Crocheted

 

Crafts in the 21^st century – what does it mean to you?

So many Schools in the states do not emphasize creativity in their curriculum. I have noticed children are fascinated with computers or a simple rock. You give a child a smooth grey stone and he will play with it for hours. The rock is allowing the child to access his imagination.
Many children need a certain magic and calm in their lives so they can enjoy the simple things and not take them for granted.

We as a society should embrace the gifts we are given. The process is the key not the destination.

 

Lady with Turban - Felted and Needle Felted

 

How do you sell and promote your work?

Many of my textile pieces have sold at art boutiques. I have attended numerous art shows. Once a year I sell my hand spun yarn and roving at the Middle TN. Fiber Festival represented by Three Creeks Farm.

I am currently selling my work at Laurel Leaf Gallery, the Artisan Market and Ewe And Company. I am a member of the TACA guild. I have joined Ravelry and Etsy on line stores. Spinning Web is the name of my Etsy shop. My main website is www.berggrenfibers.com.

 

Mohair Scarf - Knitted and Silk Pods

 

What is your typical working day?

I listen to smooth jazz and drink my java to wake up. I usually work on different projects during the day. I will hand card different types of fiber to make a custom color. I will use the wool I just carded to needle felt a wall composition. Sometimes I will spin the fiber to make a purse. My goal for the year is to finish one major project. For example, I would like to illustrate a book and use textiles and watercolor as my medium.

 

Mud Dauber – Hand Spun Wool, Crocheted, Felted and Needle Felted

 

What is your working style?

Contemplating an idea is the first step. I ponder about colors, texture and theme. The process has started and all I need to do is enjoy the ride.

Three words of advice for an aspiring craft artist/maker….

1. Follow your own path and intuition!
2. Complete your goals!
3. Enjoy being in the present!

 

Stick Bug Vessel - Felted and Needle Felted

 

Who is/are your favorite artist(s)/maker(s)?

I am always amazed to see my husband carve a guitar from a block of wood. Not only is he an artisan he also is a technician. His guitars sound astounding.

I admire Lacey Guitars, Frida kahlo, Klimt, Hokusai, Lexi Boeger, Lisa klakulak, Chad Alice Hagen, Lynne Vogel, Jacey Boggs.

 

Two Felted Scarves -Gauze and Silk

 

What music do you listen to?

Jeff Beck, Pat Metheny, Acoustic Alchemy, Santana, Lee Ritenour, Maxwell, Rippingtons, Stevie Ray Van, Robben Ford, Al Jarreau, George Benson, Earl Klugh.

 

Three likes and dislikes?

Likes - Kindness, Uniqueness, Self-confidence.

Dislikes - War, Greed, Arrogance.

 

Two Felted Purses - Silk and Merino Wool

 

What do you do to relax?

I enjoy a glass of wine or a chocolate stout. I watch a movie or read.