Our Story
The purpose of launching Junque Genius Studio & Marketplace, was to artistically reuse vintage furniture, restyle heirlooms and breathe new life into found objects. Over the last eight years we have broadened our offerings to include decorative interior finishes for residential and commercial spaces. We've added creative workshops for fundraisers or just fun and we work with Interior Design firms, who utilize our decorative artistry skills to elevate their clients’ surroundings, with faux painting and decorative plastering work.
It’s an honor to be a team member on these exciting renovation plans under the direction of the area’s most talented designers, as their resident decorative artist of furniture, walls and cabinetry. Years ago, we were called “faux painters” and worked with a sea sponge, latex paint and a handful of basic tools. Now we work with materials of all kinds including stains, shimmering plasters, metallics, micas, mineral based paints and more fancy tools than fit in my van! I’m blessed to do something that I absolutely love for a living while working with the finest Crafters and Masters. To be in the company of other creatives is a dream come true. Each day I want to learn more, get better and encourage others to do the same.
How my passion came alive...
"My background is in the Gift and Home Décor Industry, first as a retailer, then as an Account Executive with high profile lines (including the creator of a wildly popular plush craze) and for multiple inspirational gift and decorative accessory makers. These companies licensed the work of local artists and took them to national brand status, producing everything from mugs to rugs. I’m proud of the work I accomplished in those years and the positive, life-long relationships that I formed. It’s been exciting to help take products to market and assist other retail shops set merchandising plans as a visual staging expert.
Retail is my passion and I’ve truly seen it from all angles. This valuable experience has provided me with a unique perspective on owning a creative business and effectively marketing my own work. I knew that I’d eventually return to being a retailer myself and so here we are in my hometown. What I’m most grateful for is to be able to come to work each day in historic Irwin, bringing seasonal home décor, accessories and gifts to my family, friends and neighbors, who have supported me on this journey. I’m excited to be a part of this community and strive to make your visit to our studio a peaceful and enjoyable experience. Please come in and be inspired!"
— Denise Bowen —