Rising Stars: Meet Tiffany Miller of Colorado Springs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Miller.

Hi Tiffany, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have always been an artist. I began delving into art in high school, often using secondhand materials in my creations since they were more affordable. I started posting my vintage finds on social media in September 2021 after another shop owner encouraged me; mainly specializing in housewares and decor. I was immediately captivated by the idea of giving secondhand items a chance to be loved again, as a way to encourage others to recycle and rethink consumption.

I enjoyed gathering thoughtfully-chosen collections, which led me to my first 420-themed drop in April 2022. This collection brought my attention to the gap in the market for vintage paraphernalia, that’s not only functional but pleasing to look at. I spent the next year experimenting with glass conversions until I found a method that produced pieces I was proud of. After mastering this skill, I was able to fully develop my concept of curated “grass stations” by incorporating my smokeware pieces alongside vintage ashtrays, rolling trays and decor.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As with anything worth doing, there have been many challenges I’ve had to overcome. My journey as a glass artist has taught me a lot about patience and the significance of trial and error. These are lessons I continue to learn both within my process of creating my pieces, as well as how I share them with the world.

Social media, though a great tool, has been one of my biggest adversaries. I am frequently banned for supporting the use of a “regulated good,” which alienates others from discovering my art. I heavily rely on the community I’ve built to spread the word, and I am undoubtably grateful for their support in what I do.

It would be remiss to not recognize how self-doubt has affected me too. Between second guessing if others will like what I make, as well as confronting the fear of drilling into glass that’s older than me, my internal dialogue can be disheartening. Though it never fully goes away, over time I’ve learned how to push past these thoughts and to no longer entertain them.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in finding, curating, and upcycling secondhand goods for collectors, smokers, and everyone in between. My curations are for those who enjoy adorning their spaces with items rich in history and character. I am known for finding eccentric decor and trinkets and assembling them in a way that is cohesive and tasteful. I also upcycle vintage decanters into smokeable water pipes and incorporate it all into eye-catching displays that can withstand frequent use and handling. I believe what sets me apart from others is not only offering these beautiful and functional water pipes, rather the idea that they don’t need to be hidden away- but instead be a part of your home decor when surrounded by other vintage art and accessories. My methods to achieve this may also be considered unique, as I am constantly refreshing the decorative style used to inspire my curations, and that I take my time in hand-selecting each item before making them available to purchase.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Looking forward, I anticipate more interest in secondhand goods from the greater public. I’ve noticed there has been more of an emphasis on buying secondhand due to recent economic changes and ecological efforts. Although it was not always like this, thrifting seems to be the new cool thing to do, and I am all for it!

Another trend that I’ve caught on to is dopamine decor- people are no longer buying into minimalistic styled homes. I’ve seen a shift in fully embellished rooms and shelves with wall art and trinkets intended to bring joy to those who inhabit the space. I am very excited for this change, as I believe everyone should have the opportunity to create a happiness-inducing and safe place in their homes.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/letsgetthrifted_

Image Credits
D Coleman Photography