Happy Friday, dear readers! We have a treat for you today, it’s an interview with one of our amazing vendors. Today’s subject is Bearded Tales of Woe. In that this fair’s theme is of the undersea cryptozoological variety, we were delighted and amused to see the work of this vendor, who creates some fascinating, never-before-seen creatures who seem to be from the briny deep.
Hi there! First things first: What’s your name, what’s your business name, where are you from, and where are you currently located/crafting?
My Name is Pete Moulthrop, my business is Bearded Tales Of Woe, I am from Boston Ma, and I currently craft in Somerville, MA
How did you get your start? Please tell us a little bit about how your business went from an idea to what is is today.
I always thought I would be an Illustrator and only crafted as a hobby, until a friend saw what I was doing and asked for a custom piece. From there I began to think of what people might like to see
What inspires you the most to create?
Science Fiction and basically anything that forces you to change your perception of reality and scale. Miniatures and well-crafted toys are often my favorite sources of inspiration.
What are your favorite materials to work with?
Found Objects, mostly decaying matter. My best work comes from building off of crab parts and shells and old driftwood. Old scraps of Fabric hold a certain interest for me as well, little bits that have fun patterns or colors.
Do you have a favorite color palette?
I like to work with the colors found in aquatic life, and the 1970’s yellows, greens, browns and oranges.
Who are some of your favorite indie artist/crafters and why do you love them?
Heidi Kenney aka My Paper Crane has built a small empire out of fun interactive plush and plastic food. I find her work amusing and inviting. Kim Fung Wong aka Three Zero is a major inspiration and a huge influence in the Hong Kong Designer toy scene.
Any exciting future plans or developments in the works for your business? (Nothing TOP-SECRET, of course!)
Bearded Tales of Woe is investing in larger scale production of more durable & flexible creatures and toys!
What are some other things you like to do when you are not busy making awesome stuff?
Hiking and camping, eating pancakes, riding a bike, watching crappy vintage scifi and reading comic books.
What are the top 3 reasons someone shopping at the BBB 2012 should be sure to stop by your table?
Toy Squids are awesome
I take custom orders
New never before seen work & mom’s cookies
What is your favorite background noise to listen to while working?
NPR podcasts& This American Life
Where do you (craft) work?
In a secret fireproof studio beneath an old graveyard hidden deep in the wilds of Somerville
What is your favorite mythical beast and what do you think their favorite crafty past time is?
Bigfoot (though I think he’s real) and I’m pretty sure he would make felted hats and finger puppets because he’s got a simple sense of humor!
What advice would you give to a new vendor selling at the BBB for the first time?
Be friendly and don’t look bored even if your not getting much attention, it makes you less approachable.
Visit the Bearded Tales of Woe blog for more examples of Pete’s bizarre and fascinating creatures!
