by Patricia Schallert
At 77 years old, Connie Gunderson epitomizes creativity and resilience from her sunny home in Ventura, California. Originally from the stunning landscapes of Hawaii, Connie draws deep inspiration from her island upbringing, blending vibrant culture and natural beauty into her craft. Her passion lies in creating unique handbags that merge sustainability with artistry. Utilizing reclaimed materials such as upholstery and cork, Connie’s handbags are wearable art, transcending simple accessories to become reflections of her life experiences and a testament to her environmental commitment.
Each handbag tells a story, showcasing her heritage and innovative design. Connie’s work transforms everyday items into artistic statements, promoting a sustainable lifestyle without compromising style. Her use of cork adds another layer of eco-friendliness and elegance to her designs. Cork is lightweight, durable, water-resistant, and features unique textures that make it an ideal choice for chic, practical handbags.
Her combination of cork, upholstery, and other repurposed fabrics creates bags that are not only eco-friendly but also easy to maintain. Connie sources her cork primarily from cork oak trees found in Mediterranean regions like Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. These trees have a lifespan of more than 200 years and are harvested in a sustainable manner. The initial harvest occurs when the tree reaches 25 years of age, with the outer bark carefully stripped in the summer months when it’s easiest to remove. After harvesting, cork trees regenerate their bark in about 9 to 12 years, allowing for continual, sustainable harvesting.
Connie is a graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in biology. After working as a medical technologist for many years, she rediscovered her passion for fabric in retirement. Often referred to as “the Bag Lady,” this self-taught artist frequently participates in local events across Ventura County. Grateful for the opportunity to pursue her dream, Connie joyfully shares, “Thank the Lord I get to do what I love—making my handbags.” Don’t miss her next event on November 3 at Art in the Marina!
Visit ConnieGunderson.com to learn more about the artist and her work.
