Do you have a story behind your company name?

The story behind the Funky Gavroche name is the story of a little, adventurous boy from the book “Les Miserables” by Victor Hugo. I loved the character in the book, for his spirit of freedom and breaking the conventional rules, so when I started my small brand, I thought it could be a good representation for the artistic statement I was going for which was: artistic, free of rules and constraints, whimsical and creative.

Very fun. How did you get your start? I started Funky Gavroche back in 2010 when I became a mother for the first time. I have always loved to knit, I had learned to knit by my wonderful mom back in my home country, Romania, when I was just 12 years old. I’ve kept it as a hobby over the years and when I became a mother and decided to stay home with my boys, I wanted to keep my creative juices flowing, thus I’ve began designing and knitting children knitwear. As the years went by and my boys grew, I decided to continue my knitting endeavors by designing and knitting adult garments as well.

What inspires you to create?

In one word, ART! I love looking at paintings and other creative outlets that open new portals into my own imagination. I am a huge admirer of the DADA movements and surrealism as well as a Frida Khalo aficionada.

What is your favorite part of the maker process?

This question is hard to answer because I have more than one favorite part in my maker process. I LOVE the imaginative part of the process where I can visualize the garment I would like to knit, but I also LOVE the design process when I figure out textures, yarn weights and color combinations.

I bet there are so many options it is hard to narrow it down. Do you have a favorite item you have created?

I find hard to choose just one favorite item that I’ve created because I have so many designs I truly cherish and that have so many beautiful stories behind them. But there is ONE that I love a lot that blends in my love for drawing with the knitting process. It is a vest I designed and handknitted, and then I used the free form crochet technique for the appliqué on the back of the vest. The garment is called “Mirrored face” and it is truly a piece of wearable art.

So Fun! What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

I can’t say I have a typical day in the studio, but I try to have an artistic, creative day every day. I try to design and handknit two collections per year as well as custom orders and other fun inspirations that come to my head. I set aside a few hours every day to knit either custom orders that I need to fulfill, or just the designs I had already planned. On top of that, I try to stay active and engaged with my social media followers, creating content and prepping photoshoots.

What do you love most about Burbank?

I love the vibrant artistic community in Burbank, where creativity thrives at every corner. It's a hub for filmmakers, animators, and artists, with studios and galleries that celebrate both established and emerging talents. The city's rich entertainment history, combined with its welcoming atmosphere, makes it a perfect place for artistic expression and collaboration. Whether strolling through the downtown area or attending local events, there's always a sense of inspiration and community that makes Burbank truly special.

Well said. What will you be bringing to the Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival?

I will bring a variety of handknitted items: from scarves to hats, and crocheted bucket hats, to cozy and fluffy sweaters, as well as cardigans, and knitwear for children.

Anything special you would like to add?

I would really like to say to all the people who will come to the Jackalope fair that supporting small businesses and artists is vital for building strong, vibrant communities. These local entrepreneurs and creatives bring unique products, services, and perspectives that enrich our everyday lives. By choosing to shop small or buy from independent artists, we help foster innovation, preserve culture, and keep local economies thriving. Our support allows them to continue pursuing their passions, while also ensuring that communities remain diverse and dynamic places to live and work.

Find Funky Gavroche at Jackalope Burbank at the Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival this December 7th & 8th:

Website: https://www.funkygavroche.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/funkygavroche

Instagram: @funkygavroche

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