Shirlene Thomas was born in Greensboro NC. She relocated to Pittsburgh PA where she lived for the next 30+ years. While in Pittsburgh she open and operated her first business, a unique boutique called Take Two Fashions. She specialized in "one of a kind" pieces that she created along with artists in the area she would collaborate with. After several years she decided to pursue a career in the hair industry as a part of an expansion of the boutique. She finished her cosmetology license, became an instructor and eventually opened up her hair studio and boutique. In the 18 years of business she won many awards along with hair shows.
After retiring from hair she returned back home to NC. She knew that this would be the opportunity she needed to finally embrace what she was passionate about. During the pandemic "Oneovakind" was launched. Her and her daughter created a business that combined their love of fashion and art and all things repurposed. She was commissioned by habitat for humanity to create displays and perform live demos once a month. She knew then that she wanted to pursue this field professionally.
She decided to return to school for her associates in art at Guilford Technical Community College. Since being there she has had many pieces summited from professors in the art shows. She was asked to assist in starting the Campuses first pottery club and is the president. Being a mixed media artist she will always incorporate unwanted goods that she transform into beautiful art work.
