Judy Larson
Meet the Designer-Artist
Where do you live?
I live in Baudette, Minnesota, on the Rainy River, which separates the U. S. and Canada.
What inspires you as a designer-artist?
My memories, family, travels and the world around influence most of what I do. Since both my parents grew up in the 1920's, 30's and 40's, they learned to make and do anything. My two brothers and I followed in their footsteps, although I think both my brothers are way more talented than I am.
What medium do you work with mostly?
I know I will never live long enough to see everything I want to see, do everything I want to do and learn everything I want to learn. Limiting myself to doing just one thing is not in my future. I love building big things, like furniture and making small things, like jewelry. As far as jewelry goes, I prefer to work with Argentium silver and silver metal clay. Using those two, creating almost anything is possible.
Why did you become enchanted with this style of jewelry-making?
Pop beads were a creative staple for every young girl in the early 1950's, me included. Hours of fun and creativity “stringing” beads ensued. And then along came a sterling charm bracelet on my 13th birthday, and a love for all things tiny that carried memories cemented my love of jewelry. By the time I was in my 20's, I had made my first silver and turquoise cuff. Marriage, children, and work took up most of my time for many years, so only a few pieces could be made, but the itch was always there. And then along came retirement and it was off to the races! I love how tools and supplies have advanced in the intervening years! I am having a great deal of fun creating one of a kind pieces for my family that celebrate events and/or places.
For years after I retired, I wrote beginner and intermediate jewelry making tutorials for wire and sheet metal as well as taught jewelry making classes through community education at our local high school. I have now cut back, sell a few pieces in my home town and my daughter and husband sell some on their website, Honey and Flint. For the most part, I now just make things for fun and write a few tutorials on the side.
There might be a moral there--you are never too old! And I just read an article about how creativity can helps stave off dementia so CREATE AWAY!
What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?