Local Resident Creates Glitter From Litter
WARSAW — If you look closely at the Christmas display in the circulation area at Warsaw Community Public Library, you’ll discover that the holiday decorations were made with some rather unique items.
Warsaw resident Sallie Hoy, creator of the display items, reports that although she does make some crafts using perfectly normal items, at other times she prefers to use items collected from nature as well as items that others may consider trash.
“I enjoy creating, sometimes using unusual items, to bring joy to myself and to others,” Hoy stated.
Using items like pine cones, seashells, toilet paper rolls, cardboard, pistachio nut shells, candlesticks, rhinestones and metal trays, along with spray paint, glue and fairy lights, Hoy created the stunning exhibit at WCPL.
Hoy recalls constructing homemade gifts for others as a child, out of necessity.
“Our family was a large farm family and didn’t have excessive financial resources,” Hoy explained. “I have always loved nature and the beauty of natural materials, so it was an expected outcome.”
“My parents encouraged us in the creative process, and my mom treasured things that we made for her,” Hoy said. “As a wee little kid, my brother made a necklace out of corn for my mom. Years later, we found that corn necklace among the precious, valuable jewels in her jewelry box.”
Hoy discovered a love for the creative process, resulting in her becoming a visual arts teacher for the Wawasee Community School Corporation for many years.
“I didn’t have much time to create or do artwork for myself during that period since I was trying to help middle school kids learn how to make art and be creative,” said Hoy.
She retired two years ago, after 41 years of teaching. Hoy said it has been rewarding to get back into creating things as a hobby and a way to give to friends and family members.
Hoy’s other hobbies include refinishing furniture, renovating old items for different uses, drawing and painting. She has illustrated a published children’s book, “The Ring and the Crown,” which was written by Hoy’s friend, Daniel Perkins. Hoy is currently working on finishing illustrations for her own children’s book.