Meet the Phoenix Jurors: Georganne Bryant
“Georganne Bryant opened Frances, affectionately named after her grandmother, in the heart of midtown Phoenix in 2006. She personally curates Frances’ revered blend of unique clothing, jewelry, paper goods and handmade gifts.”
Tell us about yourself and your background in the arts & crafts world:
Georganne Bryant opened Frances, affectionately named after her grandmother, in the heart of midtown Phoenix in 2006. She personally curates Frances' revered blend of unique clothing, jewelry, paper goods and handmade gifts. Georganne is dedicated to collaborations with other local businesses to enrich the Phoenix community. The award winning annual craft fair, "Frances Crafeteria" has showcased hundreds of independent Arizona crafters and artists.
WIth a loyal following, Frances has been voted "Best Boutique" by Phoenix New Times since 2006. Georganne is also the co-creator of the Phoenix Small Wonders Map, a free guide to local dining and shopping. For her work in the community she was listed by Arizona Foothills Magazine as one the the "Ten Women Who Move The Valley" in 2012. The Frances family shares Georganne's passion for creating a special shopping experience and encouragement of the creative community in Phoenix.
What/Who is your biggest inspiration?
I have to say my parents have been my biggest inspiration. My father was a very successful entrpenuer/dentist while my mom is an artist. Combining their sensibilities and learning from the two of them has helped me build Frances. They were constant and encouraging.
How did you get your position in the arts & craft world?
I started Crafteria, a 45 vendor curated indie craft festival held the first Friday in December, nine years ago after attending the Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago. We also hosted Faythe Levine and her indie film Handmade Nation approximately 7 years ago, I was very inspired by Faythe.
Tell us about a few favorites of yours:
My husband and I love to hike, we love Mexican food and that is why we have to hike!
I love to hunt for the perfect items for Frances.
Several of my favorite restaurants are: Cibo, Pane Bianco, Otro, Los Compdres, and Via De Los Santos
What do you love most about the handmade movement?
I love that there is a handmade movement still happening, we all know our ancestors handmade items to survive by making their own foods for day to day life or just to make something special for someone. My mom tells a story of her mom making her a dress from a flour sack and that is when flour sacks were a lovely floral. It has come a long way from that time in America but the sense of making something with your hands feeds your soul and then taking it into the community for someone to admire and purchase is a beautiful thing.
What is the most important feature in an artists application for you?
Uniqueness, consistency and quality
What are you most looking forward to in being part of the Jackalope Arts Jury?
I am always happy that an artist has an opportunity to show their talent, glad to help the community add another quality event to the Phoenix calendar.
Where can we find out more about you?
www.francesvintage.com
@francesvintage on twitter & instagram
@georganneb on instagram