My Story

Milagros Melendez shares her journey from emerging artist to passionate gallery owner, merging her skills and experience in the formation of Happiest Kid Finds. This is a multi-faceted endeavor. It's the culmination of lifelong and independent creativity as a self-taught multi-media artist; almost 30 years experience in retail and customer service; the personal development of procuring a collection of antique and vintage posters and prints; and lastly, experience in preservation and restoration - currently focusing on old photos, furniture, fabric, and books.Milagros Melendez, owner and operator of Happiest Kid Finds, standing in front vintage Pan Am posters from the late 1960s - to late 1980s.

 

IN THE BEGINNING...:

Beginning in 1998, I began as a restorer at a New York poster gallery and then transitioned to helping manage the retail aspect of it during the first sixteen years of working in the vintage poster industry. Fast forward to the inevitable after being surrounded by it for so long that in 2015, I caught the treasure-hunting bug in a serious way. 

ABOUT THE NAME: 
The concept behind my company's name came about when I decided to start selling some of my posters online 16 years ago as a side gig. As an artist, I was using MilagrosArt, and a big part of me thought I should keep my art self separate from my collector / sales self, although the two sides have finally aligned and realized they are mutually beneficial. But at the time, I was looking for a unique name that left an impression.
Now, either I saw a photo or video of a baby goat jumping around, I can't remember, but that joy, playfulness, happiness! That! is what I wanted the name to convey. Because, not only do I enjoy what I do and what I've found, my visitors and clients, I hope, feel the same.
Toward the end of 2023, I moved to Wilmington, NC and decided it was time to pull all of the years of experience, interests and skills together and open up my shop.

 My ultimate goal with Happiest Kid Finds is to cultivate and nurture a new generation of collectors as Wilmington, NC's resource for antique and vintage posters, and preservation of art, photos, books, furniture, and interior accessories.
MY PERSPECTIVE:

I consider myself to be more of a collector than a dealer. A dealer isn't necessarily interested in creating a market; rather, looking to buy what there's already a market for. A collector is willing to go down some rabbit holes while doing research, which may lead to finds that aren't as appealing to a wide audience.

The three main factors that I look for in procuring works (and it isn't until I've made a purchase that I realize that it actually does fit into one, or if I'm lucky, all of these qualifiers) :

  • that they be aesthetically pleasing; 
  • of historical significance;
  • and have social relevance. 
I think in terms of stories, and I also enjoy connecting threads of different material, so the collections that I showcase and how they're displayed have a greater impact on a visitor, and the broad assortment of subject matter and material helps to define what you'll come to expect from Happiest Kid Finds. 
 

ABOUT THE COLLECTION:

The core of the collection dates from the 1950s - the 1970s, but spans from etchings and engravings dating from the late 1700s to present day contemporary decor. It celebrates the diversity of vintage art, featuring everything from the psychedelic allure of black light posters to the sophisticated charm of classic lithographs from the late 1800s and the turn of the 20th century. 

At Happiest Kid Finds, you are offered an eclectic mix of original pieces that cater to various tastes and interests, whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning to explore the world of antique and vintage posters; a savvy interior or set designer; or curious history buff. 

Each item in my gallery will bring a unique blend of history and artistry to your collection. This extensive range includes sought-after film posters that capture the golden age of cinema and vibrant silk screens that showcase the dynamic artistry of past decades.

 

In addition to buying and selling antique and vintage posters, I can offer expert advice on maintaining the integrity of cherished pieces and digitally archiving and cataloging. I find solutions that best preserve the items that you value most by offering on-site gallery preservation of art, photos, furniture, and fabrics, as well as the creation of statement pieces from repurposed objects.

Join me at Happiest Kid Finds to explore its diverse collection of antique and vintage posters, lithographs, and silk screens. Discover the joy of original art and design, and allow me to help you preserve the legacy of your collection. 

Visit Services for more information and Book an appointment today!


#art #design #antique #vintage #posters #prints #collectibles #preservation #conservation #restoration

 

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