Sunday, December 15, 2024

The art of upcycling

“You must not ever stop being whimsical. And you must not, ever, give anyone else the responsibility for your life.” — Poet Mary Oliver (Wild Geese) This quote from poet Mary Oliver could well have been written by long time Southern Denton County resident Cheryl Smith as it seems to sum up the theme of her life and her new business, Shady Shores Décor.

Many readers will recognize Smith’s name as the former owner of Woody’s Landscape, or perhaps from being named Flower Mound Citizen of the Year in 2001. Soon, you will recognize her name as a whimsical artist that takes a pile of plates, vases, and figurines and turn them into a treasured, one-of-a-kind piece of art.

In a time of transition after selling Woody’s, Smith found herself drawn to pieces of pottery, glass and ceramics, and soon she began creating something she calls “totems.” She started designing, creating, and making decorative yard art and centerpieces using upcycled and repurposed glass and pottery. Each item on every piece is carefully chosen to create a beautiful spectrum of color – sometimes along with a theme. What started out to be “yard art” can also be used inside every room of your home, wherever a touch of whimsy might be needed. Each repurposed “totem” is unique and cannot be duplicated. You will not see another one just like it.

“I started making these for my own garden and landscape and before you know it, friends and family were wanting to buy them and they were telling their friends and family – hence, Shady Shores Décor,” said Smith, who lives on the shores of Lake Lewisville in the aptly-named town of Shady Shores.

In keeping with her fanciful and playful personality, Smith names each of her creations. For example, “It’s A Hoot” features owls and “Visions of the Sea” includes sea creatures and beautiful shades of blue.

Smith said she considers these pieces accessories for your environment. “When you get dressed, that’s not all you do. You add accessories like jewelry, scarfs, etc. The same goes for your home. You don’t just add a table, and a sofa and a chair. You add style and personality to your home with accessories, and that’s what these creations do,” she added.

“Special orders can be accommodated – such as, you may have a special vase from Aunt Mary, or an antique plate from your grandmother. You might also have a special color or theme in mind which can also be made just for your home or garden. If this is the case, please call or email us, and we will get right back with you,” Smith said.

She sells her art via the Internet at www.shadyshoresdecor.com, at craft fairs, and in local stores such as Gigi’s Place inside the Community Care Pharmacy on 407 near McGee Lane in Lewisville.

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