Repurposed Art in Sarasota Gives Forgotten Treasures a Fabulous Second Act
Debra, the Empress of Art, gives forgotten treasures a fabulous second act. Everything she sells is handmade or creatively repurposed, from antique silverware and vintage pieces to old glass doorknobs and other beautifully crafted objects from the past. She is especially drawn to items made with the kind of artistry and detail you don’t see anymore. In Debra’s hands, these vintage finds become completely original wall art and one-of-a-kind creations.
Handmade paper Suncatchers repurposed art in Sarasota Dragonfly repurposed art in Sarasota
But repurposed art is just one part of Debra’s creative world.
She also makes handmade paper using flower seeds and rose petals, adding natural color and texture to every sheet.
Another specialty is hypertufa, a lightweight material designed to resemble volcanic rock. Made with ingredients including peat moss, these rustic vessels hold moisture well without leaving plants sitting in too much water. They are especially wonderful for bromeliads and can even be hung! Debra knows her stuff, too. She has taught hypertufa classes at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
Not Your Typical Tie-Dye
Ice Dye repurposed art in Sarasota Ice Dye one of a kind jacket Ice dye t shirt unisex
Debra also creates incredible ice-dyed clothing and linens. This process uses ice and powdered dye—no liquid dye bath needed. As the ice melts, it pulls the colors in different directions, creating patterns that can look like abstract paintings or colorful landscapes.
No two pieces are ever exactly alike. Debra primarily works with natural and breathable materials such as 100% cotton, linen and rayon.
Her ice-dyed collection includes:
Bath towels and washcloths
Dish towels
Baby onesies with matching beanies and socks
Burp cloths
T-shirts ranging from baby sizes through adult 3X
Although ice dyeing may resemble tie-dye, it creates a completely different look—more fluid, artistic and wonderfully unpredictable.
Debra began learning all sorts of creative techniques in high school and has continued exploring ever since. She also plans to bring more batik pieces to The Bazaar now that she has mastered working with and maneuvering the wax used in the process.
Repurposed Art in Sarasota Finds Home at The Bazaar
Originally from Connecticut, Debra has lived in Sarasota for 35 years. She first came to the area while doing companion work for a snowbird. After helping the woman move to Longboat Key, Debra fell in love with Sarasota and decided to make it her home.
As an artist, she was immediately attracted to the creative energy of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. She worked hard at pop-up markets and dreamed of one day becoming a permanent member of The Bazaar family. Now that it has happened, she feels incredibly fortunate to be here.
We feel just as fortunate to have her! Stop by and meet Debra, the Empress of Art, and discover all her unusual, colorful, and beautifully repurposed art in Sarasota she has waiting for you.
The Bazaar Is located at 821 Apricot Ave In Sarasota, Florida. Open Thursday - Saturday 10 am - 3 pm weekly.
