One of the most essential elements of successful design is a sense of story. Incorporating pieces that have a history to richen the mood of the décor is fundamental in creating a beautifully inviting space. Local artist, Rayne Voyer, draws from her lifetime of creative and spiritual influence to transform found oddities into art, using mixed mediums to create treasures for the home with a mystical appeal.
Launching June 26, Rayne will be hosting a monthly pop-up curios shop within her studio to offer her creations to the public. The boutique, Witch Merchant, will showcase and retail her curated collections of antiques, oddities and fashion. Doors will be open from noon to 6pm on the last Sunday of each month at her studio at 834 East Pender.
Tell us a little about yourself…
I am an artist of various mediums, but my passion lies within creating beauty out of the seemingly ordinary. For me art is a lifestyle, not a career – I grew up in an artistic home, and now as an adult I've recreated that for myself and spend a lot of time in my home/ studio creating and curating.
Do you have a Vancouver muse? Or a favourite place in or around the city that inspires you?
Ultimately, Mother Nature is my muse. Around the city there are a few places that inspire me: I love the train tracks, they are a great place to find treasures to make art with. The Strathcona neighbourhood is my home and offers the solace and community to nurture my soul.
If you could describe your artistic style in one word, what would it be?
Fluid. My craft applies to all kinds of art, not just one medium, so it’s always changing. My work offers a ritualistic element and therefore each piece appeals to everyone individually.
What is your favourite accessory?
A black chihuahua. No, kidding (sort of). I love things that are old with a story to tell.
Some people collect old cameras & typewriters. Do you collect anything?
I collect everything… vintage bottles, crystals, books – essentially Witch Merchant is a curated version of all of my collections.
Who is your idol or mentor?
My parents. My father was a creator and my mother was a collector. We grew up in the woods, in a small town. My parents taught me to create from nature – my dad would make us kids whistles from sticks or bones… it taught me to see the beauty and artistic potential in everything.
Is there one area of your craft you find especially challenging?
Marketing. The creating comes naturally, but I’m shy so sharing it or promoting it becomes the challenge. I think this is a learning curve for many artists – to learn to embrace both your creative spirit and business sense.
What do you wish more people knew about artists?
That things take time. Inspiration doesn’t work with the clock.
Do you have a favourite creative space?
My living room; this space, this shop, my home.
