The talented gals behind Blue Turtle Designs work together to create functional and whimsical pieces from mild steel, recycled objects, copper, glass, architectural items, and more!
How long have you been creating your artwork?
We left the corporate world to do something more challenging and creative. We never expected to be still working at it 18 years and 1,200 events later with no end in sight!
What are your goals for the future, both artistically and in life?
To continue bringing smiles to people who see and recognize the recycled components we use in our work. Customers love that we recycle discarded familiar household objects!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I (Lisa) worked for a petting zoo with exotic animals at one time. Some of my own unusual pets have been 2 rats and a pot belly pig named Kirby.
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
Quality Control Engineer
What do you enjoy doing besides making art?
Photography, traveling, biking, and pets.
What are you currently working on?
Developing a new grouping of rustic wood pieces for the garden. Our wooden birdhouses on metal stands sell out quickly whenever we bring them in the store.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Vicki Bangs of Freaky Frogs. She creates whimsical sculptures from copper.
What are your favorite places to frequently visit around Detroit?
We enjoy going to Eastern Market and also Northville, MI, where we were the owners of State of Mind Gallery.
Any other trivia you'd like to share about yourselves?
We're babysitters for exotic animals. Our latest is now a 4-month-old camel baby named Jasper.
To see more from Blue Turtle Designs, come visit us at Yellow Door in downtown Berkley!