An Ever-Changing, Welcoming Space
Words Abby L. Johnson | Photos Eric Morales
Vivid imagery, a medley of textures, and a dash of whimsical all contribute to the meticulous mise-en-place of artist Marcela Homrich’s storefront. The varied array of colorful tapestries, multi-media collages, embroidery, jewelry, and paper goods are artfully arranged in her cozy gift shop located in the heart of East Austin, fully entertaining but not overwhelming the senses.
The woman behind the work is Marcela Homrich, a Brazilian graphic designer who moved to Austin in 2014. She came by her art practice early in life, the natural result of being raised in a creative environment. “My mom was an art teacher and a sculptor… I remember one day when she asked me to paint an entire wall of my bedroom. She was very free-spirited in that sense. And I think she taught me from a very early age that I didn’t have to conform. So, I was more like a rebel kid,” Marcela smiles.
Her free-spirited nature and background in graphic design are evident in the varied mediums and bold graphics throughout the space, which acts as part gallery, part gift shop. Marcela fearlessly jumps into new forms of expression and isn’t afraid to try her hand at an unfamiliar art form. Opening her storefront three years ago was her biggest leap to date. “[The shop] was a dream. It was always a dream,” she shares and adds that “the people who come in the store are all very supportive.” Marcela especially enjoys chatting and getting to know her neighbors, even when they are just coming to take a peek at her wares.
In addition to the displays in her own shop, her work has been featured at The Cathedral, a local gallery and event space that is home to a collective of women artists. In the past, she has also participated in the Austin Studio Tour.
For Marcela, the storefront, like many of the pieces in her portfolio, is never really finished. “I can experiment a lot, and I think [the shop] is never ready. Every time a person comes inside, I feel a little bit exposed… I am constantly changing things around me in the display.” The constant evolution of the space and her work has artists, art collectors, and window shoppers alike frequenting to see what Marcela has dreamed up on any given week.
Contact:
1301 Chicon St., Ste. 104
marcelahomrich.com
@marcelahomrich
