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In a world where discarded items often go unnoticed and unappreciated, one artist’s imagination breathes new life into forgotten treasures. Meet Risa Lenore, artist, educator, performer, and puppeteer whose craft transcends traditional boundaries. With nimble fingers and boundless creativity, she transforms ordinary recyclables into extraordinary characters that captivate audiences young and old. Step into their whimsical world, where plastic bottles become sentient beings, cardboard boxes morph into enchanting beasts, and discarded fabrics weave tales of wonder. Through their artistry, they not only entertain but also inspire us to see the beauty in the overlooked and the potential in the discarded.
An Artistic Journey of Intersectionality
“I always thought and believed we should use what already exists, and take that giant stop button and press it on manufacturing; therefore, we would have enough from what already exists in the world.”
-Risa Lenore
Risa pursued studies in dance, theater, and anthropology at Beloit College in Wisconsin, later immersing herself in the world of preschool education in Berkeley, CA, all while maintaining a fervent presence on stage. Her adventures took her across the country as a physical actor before leading her to Paris, France, where she delved into the realms of physical theater and experimental movement at Jacques LeCoq’s International School of Theatre. It is at the International School of Theater and its experimental movement program that solidified Risa’s love for puppetry. The way paper moves and folds becomes the intersection between visual arts and physical movement.
Jelly Jamming, a Play-Filled Time!
Upon returning home from France, Jelly Jam Time blossomed—a culmination of Risa’s diverse talents and her profound understanding of early childhood education. Fueled by a continuous quest for growth, she sought further enrichment in puppetry at Humber College in Toronto, CA, and explored brain-compatible dance education under Anne Green Gilbert in Seattle, WA. Her dedication to honing her craft led her to pursue additional courses in early childhood education through Peralta college and Alameda County’s Integrated Learning Specialist program.
“ I find the flotsam and jetsam of the world, of my world, of this reality and use it as a main focal point in my creations.”
-Risa Lenore
Creative Reuse and the Stories we Hold, Mourn, and Carry On
During Risa’s residency with the El Cerrito Creative ReUse program, her focus gravitated towards the plethora of abundant and overflowing items—mountains of milk jugs and stacks of books. Later, she unearthed photographs, postcards, and cherished keepsakes that would be given new life into her characters. Through her creations, Risa endeavored to salvage both the physical and emotional remnants of texts, pictures, and memories that might have otherwise been destined for the trash. In some instances, the ephemera held within these items would directly shape the story and characters brought to life by Risa’s vision.
Puff Marionette: Made from paper pages and wood, this marionette is a dancer, taking a nap.
“I allowed myself to be informed and intuited by the materials that were there- I would be ready to harvest and I would let whatever was interesting to me would guide me.”
-Risa Lenore
You can find Risa continuing to bring art and creativity to her community as well as being the face of Jelly Jam Time at www.jellyjamtime.com. You can also reach Risa Lenore at [email protected] for more information, booking sessions, educator trainings, and more!