She is the creative mind behind Bijounique (pronounced bee-joo-neek), a unique jewelry line made up of uncommon beads, semi-precious stones, and vintage findings from all over the world creating one-of-a-kind pieces. Not limiting herself to classic or traditional styles, Maureen is very drawn to the Victorian Era and its influence in jewelry, particularly 'steampunk'. She loves how time, watches, clock parts, gears, hearts, dragonflies, locks, keys, and more represent a whimsical or fantasy driven version of this era.
What is your favorite piece of work that you have created?
I have a couple. Unfortunately, they both sold.
What are your goals for the future, both artistically and in life?
Spend more time with the family.
What are you currently working on?
I just finished three watch dial mirrors.
Do you have any other interesting hobbies?
I love antiquing, but that goes along with my vintage jewelry.
What is your strongest memory of your childhood?
My summers at our cottage in Ontario, Canada, on Lake Erie near Niagra Falls.
What jobs have you had other than being an artist?
I was a buyer in the Home division of a department store, and I was responsible for 62 stores located in Upstate NY, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and North Dakota.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I played basketball in high school and was the captain of the team. I went on to coach basketball in the 80s.
Do you have any tips or inspiring words for others?
Keep pushing yourself. Think outside the box.
Where do you gather most of your inspiration for your artwork?
Everywhere -- nature, clothing, old paintings, architecture, Pinterest.
What is your favorite....
Color: Blue
Pet and/or animal: cats - I have four rescue cats
Season: Spring & Fall
Movie: "3 Days of the Condor (with Robert Redford), "That Thing You Do" (Everything today seems to be a remake)
Board game: Clue
Holiday: Christmas and Halloween is a close second
Best cup of coffee: Don't drink coffee but like Chai Tea
Ice Cream: not an ice cream eater but loved Mandarin Chocolate at 31 Flavors as a child (don't know if it still exists).
What superpower would you have?
To see into the future.
What is the best piece of advice you've been given?
Be yourself.
What's the one thing you can't live without?
My husband.
What has been the best cultural event you visited in the past year?
The Poinsettia & Railway Exhibit at the Buffalo, NY Botanical Gardens, and I also enjoyed "A Beatles Tribute" at the Lexington Village Theatre in Lexington, MI
Do you admire any artists?
I've always liked Van Gogh, but gravitate more to ancient art, especially ruins.
What has been a favorite read?
"Killing England" by Bill O'Reilly
What do you like to listen to?
Country Music -- it's the new pop music.
You can see much more of Maureen's gorgeous jewelry at Yellow Door and online.