How did you get started with making and designing jewelry?
In all honesty..I always considered myself a painter first, and a clothing designer second! Jewelry for me was a way to express myself creatively without having to worry about fit, as well as a chance to create usable, wearable art. I love art with a usability factor....a practical factor. I fell into it almost accidentally.
How long have you been selling your pieces on Etsy?
I opened my shop in 2007, but it took me about 4 months to get serious about listing and focusing on design. I made a pair of Edgar Allen and Virginia Poe earrings for Halloween, and people literally bought them off my ears. I recognized that I was (at the time...alas, it has changed!) doing something sort of original...and realized that with these tiny images under glass, I could tell a story with jewelry. Once I woke up to that idea..I knew there were a LOT of stories I could tell!
How do you go from inspiration to finished piece?
I have certain symbols, images and themes that I have adored all my life. Periods other than the modern era, fairy tales, crowns, moons, stars, Catholic Imagery, pagan imagery, hearts. Gothic themes. Literary themes. I'm all over the place, but it's all pretty romantic in one way or another.
What is your favorite material to work with? Why?
I don't have one, actually. I am always looking for new materials. I just want it to feel substantial, old, rich.
Are you working on any new projects?
I am....Many a cowgirl is coming!
Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry?
That would be VERY hard to choose. Of my own collection, I think I love my "Boudoir" set the best..
www.etsy.com/listing/69452779/le-boudoir-hyperfeminine-pendant
In my personal collection, I am rather obsessed with a tiny handmade flaming heart miniature altar/nicho necklace I got during my last visit to Austin..a second home for me.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I have so MANY creative interests, and I often work myself into a frenzy, burn out, and then do something else for a while..I need to change things up or I get grumpy. Regardless, I hope to never have a straight job again. I'm a terrible boss, but working for someone else again would be worse!
