I try not to be a jealous person, but when I meet someone who is kind, stunning and over-the-top talented, it’s hard not to turn a little green. Mostly though, I am blown away by the creative genius of Emmie Brown, artist and owner of Pet Pieces.
How long have you lived in PVB or Beaches area?
Since I was born in 1990. I am proud to be a PV native.
What is your favorite thing about PVB?
Ponte Vedra has been a great place to grow up. I guess my favorite thing about PV is all of the memories.
What made you start Pet Pieces?
It all started as a hobby. I love animals, especially dogs, and I love art. So it only made sense to bring those two passions together. Once I realized I could make money doing what I love, I knew what my path would be.
Your suggestion for a Ponte Vedra mascot?How long have you been doing Pet Pieces?
I started making collages on a whim when I was in about 5th grade, but I guess Pet Pieces officially became “a thing” about two years ago, after I graduated from Flagler College.
What should people know about Pet Pieces? I’m flattered that people think my pieces are paintings, but they are actually collages! Most people mistake them for paintings because of the realism I’m able to create and because of the way the pieces of paper seem to blend together. If you give my pieces a closer look, you’ll find that they’re much more interesting and unique than a painting. They include clippings of cool patterns, textures, and fun little images and words that I’ve collected from hundreds of magazines. I’m able to customize each piece by including things that are personal to the client, such as their college mascot or their dog’s favorite toy. Once I’ve gathered all of my magazine pieces, each piece is purposefully cut–some fat squares, some whisker-thin lines–until every detail of your pet is captured. So I would just like people to know that my pieces are more than your ordinary painting. They are a labor of love, meticulously created to truly capture your pet!
What are your hobbies outside of your profession?
I love spending time with my family, my boyfriend, friends, and of course my two dogs.
If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?
Probably a wealthy art collector who has a passion for dogs and collage!
What was your favorite subject in school?
Everything art-related. I was always the nerdy one who was first to arrive to art class and the last to leave.
What is your favorite football team?
I am loyal to my Jaguars!
What is your favorite book?
I have many, but I’m currently re-reading The Help.
Favorite and least favorite trend in your business?
I think it’s great that buyers seem to be appreciating handmade products. Outlets like Etsy have allowed for a huge boom in crafty entrepreneurship. My least favorite trend is that of artists charging absurd amounts for “abstract” art. Because art is so subjective, some artists see this as license to charge as if they’re some renowned artist reincarnated. Nothing against abstract art, but it makes me want to pull my hair out when I see some colors slapped together onto a canvas with a price tag of $2,000. The art world is a weird place.
If you can change one thing about Ponte Vedra, what would it be?
I would add a Chipotle and a dog park.
Last time you laughed out loud uncontrollably? And why?
It was probably at something my cousin Robert said. He has a weird way of phrasing things that makes me die laughing. I have started writing them down.
Your suggestion for a Ponte Vedra mascot? The Pet Pieces logo dog!
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We have a wonderful piece by Emmie – couldn’t be a better gift for a pet-lover!!! Glad to see you highlighting her talents here!