Urban Enthusiast – January 2016

1/12/16
Marlene Reid is a true urban enthusiast, deeply involved with the downtown Las Vegas community on many levels. She and her business partner, Michele Phillips, own Unhinged Etc., a carefully curated fine art and contemporary craft store at Art Square. Unhinged features art from over 40 artists: jewelry, paintings, small-scale sculptures, metalwork, wood work, custom bath and body products and more.
Marlene is also the president of the board of directors of the newly formed non-profit First Friday Foundation and is an active board member on the 18b, The Las Vegas Arts District neighborhood association board of directors.
Marlene’s personal art creations come out of Island Girlz, her crafting business, which always includes a recycled component. Marlene creates amazing paper art such as collages made from books, along with wearable functional art from everyday materials. She exhibits her work in art festivals all over the Southwest. Obviously, Marlene never has time on her hands.
Where are you from originally?
Oahu, Hawaii but I’ve been in Las Vegas for more than 25 years.
What drew you to DTLV in particular and what makes you want to hang out and work here?
I have always been a “downtowner” in spirit. I worked for the federal government for many years and also was a part time artist. When I retired from my government job, I met with Brett Wesley and he helped me become more involved with art in DTLV – my passion. And here I am today!
What are some of your favorite attractions of the neighborhood?
I love Makers & Finders, Sin City Pickers, and both Gypsy Den and Reclaimed, which are both closed now. I always look for “hole-in-the-wall” places.
What do you think sets DTLV apart from other neighborhoods in Las Vegas?
The strong sense of camaraderie – the arts district is a true neighborhood where we rely on each other. For example, I recently had a flat tire and several of the guys from the Arts Factory came over to fix it – unasked. They simply saw I was having a problem. I love this neighborhood for that type of friendship and enjoy chatting with the many artists who come into my store or who I meet in my travels around the neighborhood.
Any new developments in the neighborhood that you’re excite for?
Yes, all the new restaurants and eateries planned for 1st and Main. I’m also excited to see the arts district continue to grow and mature while keeping its sense of community.
Photo: Marlene Reid at Unhinged Etc. by Lucky Wenzel