Tracy Moore
Creator & Procurer Cabinets Of Curiosity
Thrifting has become very popular and a great way to shop locally. Social media reels entitled “what I found thrifting and how I styled it” seem to be the new trend. But what about an even different way to see the world of repurposing? The term “Cabinets of Curiosities” is an English translation of a German phrase, and they’re also known as wonder-rooms. They emerged in the 16th century and served as a collection to reflect the curator’s interest. So, we wanted to speak to Tracy Moore about her booth at the Cat’s Meow filled with curiosity!
What made you start Cabinets of Curiosity?
I’ve always painted and created for others as a job, so I wanted to create my own little odd things. When my home started looking like a museum, I needed an outlet to sell, but if I could keep them all, I would. It has been a pleasure getting to meet the people who appreciate the same things.
What inspires your creativity?
Everything really, but for these pieces it’s that the things I work with are
unloved and unwanted. It’s nice to be able to take something and make it into an art piece or a new heirloom. The history is still there, but it has a new life.
What type of items do you look for or do they have to jump out at you?
Most of the items find me. They peek out from a corner or behind other things. If I have to look for a specific thing that’s in my mind it can be daunting. Sometimes a piece jumps out, and I know what it should become but I need the other missing pieces. Some projects wait for their right parts. If they are forced, they look forced. It can take months and years for the final transformation.
Favorite thing you have transformed?
Honestly everything I have transformed is my favorite, but there are some I totally fall in love with, and they stay with me. I like to say my home style is country living meets the “Addams Family” with a dash of “Mutter Museum.”
Where are the most uncommon places you find items?
That’s probably better left to the imagination.
What can people expect when they come to your booth?
Unique antiques and one-of-a-kind transformed or created pieces.
