Just when you thought there would never be a creative solution to what I call “artwork overload” or the ever growing collection of clothes that your child has grown out of, we found The Great Remember. Brooklyn-based artist, Lisa Waltuch is the brainchild behind the idea to create commemorative pieces of original artwork using your child’s art projects or old clothing. Brilliant!
Here’s how it works. You can choose between two art forms: mosaic or applique. If you choose the applique format all you need to do is collect some old pieces of clothing that hold some sentimental value to you (Lisa notes, not to be overwhelmed with the selection process as any items will do, large amounts or very small). Once you place your order, TGR will send you a prepaid bag for the items. You can then choose from one of her templates or you can customize your own design. From there she will create an original piece of artwork that will be sent directly to you.
If you choose the mosaic format you must collect some of your child’s most precious artwork (again don’t make yourself crazy with the selection process). Lisa will send a photographer to your home to shoot the pieces so they will not be ruined. Once you select your design from her templates she will create a piece of artwork that can be framed or can come on a stretch canvas. Timing on both varies somewhere between 3-8 weeks.
These original pieces of art are not only beautiful but sentimental as well. Here’s one of my favorite designs in the Applique, The Silhouette. Send Lisa a picture of your child and she will create a piece of art in his/her likeness using his/her clothes.
And my vote for most creative piece is her Phrases collection. Lisa dug through her journal and found some of her favorite phrases that her son used as a child and she embroidered those on a piece of artwork using the Applique technique.
The Great Remember pieces work great for a unique and meaningful Mother’s Day or Holiday Gift. Gift cards are available so parents can choose their own designs, clothing and art work pieces, collaborating with Lisa to make something beautiful and special to display in their home. Prices vary and these pieces of art are an investment, however this is a one of kind keepsake that any parent or grandparent will cherish for a lifetime. I know what my mother in law is getting next mother’s day.
