By Mance Ranne
BERKELEY, Calif — A new focus on original artwork has brought exclusive talent to the vending community here along Telegraph Avenue. A collage of uncommon handmade products displayed by freelance artists made from the community’s diverse culture is shared with both residents and visitors alike.
Kelly Ann Shull, an artist who sets up shop on the corner of Channing and Telegraph from Friday through Sunday, shares her experience as a creator in Berkeley for seven years. Named after her late Yellow Labrador, “Mo Mo’s Garden” is a stand at which Shull shares hand-blown glass containers for succulents, custom hanging sculptures and jewelry.
The shop stands to display the healing properties of gardening. Taking inspiration from across the world, Shull said, “I get inspired when I travel,” as she includes small statues featured from previous trips to China.
Shull features a “plant guarantee” that allows customers to start again if purchased plants die within the month, along with helpful care instructions.
Further down the road, Russell Andavall’s “FireGod Arts” serves as a 46-year-old example of custom contribution.
A pioneer in selling on the Berkeley streets, Andavall aided in the formation of ordinances in the 1970s for San Francisco vendors.
Andavall’s pottery includes unusual glazes and an atypical style of combination. He includes various symbols from media, including “The Grateful Dead,” whose band members he knew.
“A lot of people do copies. I don’t do copies,” Andavall said. “You’re supposed to make what you sell here.”
The artists selling from Berkeley’s streets, particularly along Telegraph Avenue, are a part of the city’s appeal. But the artists and their work also are evolving.
“Whatever you do now will change,” Andavall said.