"In a world increasingly driven by speed and sameness, Anne-Marie Antici is a quiet force of resistance - reminding us that authentic, handcrafted matters, that presence is powerful and that our stories deserve to be written, carried and remembered."
In my small home studio, I stitch together more than just leather - I stitch together journals and handbags that support authenticity, creativity and heirloom quality functional art.
When I began working with leather, I took instruction (remotely) from a master craftsman in Zurich. I learned the method of creating bespoke, couture items by hand.
It is only by this method, that every stitch carries with it intention and soul, as well as more strength and beauty than the more commonly used, machine stitch.
The journal is a tool in which the user creates a visual reflection of themselves, I believe that handwriting is our fingerprint and is a gift given by God to identify us. Handwriting invites us to slow down and reflect. Whether we create by writing our memories, thoughts, recipes, whatever one chooses...or collage, doodle, sketch...they are all ways in which we document and celebrate our unique story.
The brain treats handwriting as movement - and each curve and line drawn physically reshapes and lights up our neural pathways; these pathways don't even exist when typing. Consider this: the physical act of writing has been considered sacred throughout history...a conduit for something beyond conscious thought. Perhaps we should begin to cherish the written word again.
Write on!
My bespoke handbags are designed "on the table", meaning no patterns nor duplications (and definitely no machinery) is used in fabrication; only, a traditional 5-step saddle stitch. I like to keep things fresh and unique and to protect your investment; no one can walk into a store or click a button, and buy the same handbag as yours! I appreciate every clients support and value every dollar they choose to invest in my dream.
Currently, my woodworking art is on hold due to personal circumstances but I fully intend to continue this passion as soon as possible. In the meantime, please enjoy browsing through my past works.
In a simple workshop on the ground of Momma's childhood home, is where my passion for woodworking began. Momma and I would locate just the right pieces from old homes, barns, or wherever we could and work that wood until the rustic became refined! We spent many a precious hour together in that little shed and beneath the trees, creating gorgeous, functional art. When it came time to go to market, Momma was always in by my side...wrapping, packing, hauling and selling.
Another passion of mine that is very near and dear to my heart, is that of which has anything to do with supporting children, especially those less fortunate and neglected. It is my honor to support several organizations, including CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate for foster children) and to bring more awareness to the horrific human trafficking epidemic in the United States and abroad. I pledge 10% of all profits to be donated to these causes.
Personally and as a business owner, I want to help the less fortunate both financially and inspirationally. It's my dream to one day build a home for the survivors of human trafficking and to create an environment in which these children can flourish and grow to be independent, successful and of course, creative adults.