I love to upcycle vinyl and tapes into wall art

Thu, 08 Aug, 2019 - 09:02

Tell us about yourself?

My name is Sheena Yolzari, I am the owner/designer at Wreck the Record, which is the creative upcycling of old and unwanted Vinyl and cassettes, into bespoke and functional art pieces.

I am a textile artist, I enjoy experimenting with different materials and textures and I love trying to turn something old into something new.

I’ve always been surrounded by vinyl collectors, which has enabled me to create a collection of unique hand-carved wall art which is on display in my own studio in Douglas.

Where were you born?

I was born in Israel, my mum is Irish and my dad is Israeli, we all moved to Cork in 1998, which at first, was a culture shock. However, I’m as Cork as you’ll get now boi.

One of Sheena's upcycled vinyl art work pieces.

Where do you live?

I live in Douglas.

Family?

I have two younger sisters, my parents and our lovely family dog.

Best friend?

I have far too many amazing friends to pick one.

Earliest childhood memory?

Playing with lion cubs in South Africa.

Person you most admire?

My parents, for their endless encouragement and inspiration. They set up their own business here in Cork and over 20 years later, Silverstone Dimensions is still a successful jewellers in Midleton.

Person who most irritates you?

Life is too short for irritating people, I try to focus on the good in people where possible.

Sheena also makes clocks from the vinyl.

Who would you like to see as Minister for Finance and why?

I’m not all that keen on following politics, however, I would welcome someone who would make more effort to support small and local business as I believe these are the people who are the backbone of our community.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

Travelling around South America with my sister in 2008.

I was so fortunate to be able to see that beautiful part of the world and meet so many inspirational people along the way.

I learned so much during those four months.

Sheena is a textile artist and loves experimenting with difference materials.

Favourite TV programme?

At this point in time I would have to say Chernobyl as I found it gripping and really well made. Although I was aware of the story I was shocked at the level of cover-up that took place following this horrific accident which to this day we are still seeing the effects of.

Your signature dish if cooking?

I wouldn’t be the best cook, however I can make a fantastic breakfast. Asparagus and broccoli scrambled eggs (if that counts as a dish).

Favourite restaurant?

I have worked as a waitress for the past 16 years and currently work part-time in the Fish Bar at Electric. Best food in Cork and, needless to say, the best service too.

Last book you read?

I’m not much of a reader, any downtime I have I spend in my art studio.

Making and creating is my way to unwind and relax.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Nightmares On Wax — Back to Mine. It’s a compilation of after-hours music which I really enjoy.

There's a local slant on some of her work.

Favourite song?

Fat Freddie’s Drop — Flashback, I have always really loved this band, they have such an amazing fusion of reggae, soul & funk, they are so original and I’m really looking forward to seeing them in Dublin later this year.

Do you have a pet?

We have a family dog named Booba who I absolutely adore, she gets me out walking.

Morning person or night owl?

I’m a bit of both as I work late on weekends, however I’m up early during the week trying to get through orders in my studio.

Spendthrift or saver?

I enjoy living life and treating myself because, as I mentioned, life is just too short, however, I went into turbo saver mode to buy my beautiful amazing house.

Name one thing you would improve in your area?

Douglas is in decline, so many shops on the Main Street are derelict and on the west side there are literally houses crumbling.

This is ridiculous, seeing as there are more than 10,000 homeless in our country.