Emily Blair

Where do you live?

Cody, Wyoming

Describe your artistic style.

I would describe my artistic style as unique western art to wear.

What inspires you as a designer-artist?

I am inspired by the beauty of the western land. The vivid Wyoming nighttime sky combined with the picturesque scenery of the west has manifested into artistic vision that transformed into the starburst constellation series in my Wild West Jewelry collection.

What materials do you most enjoy working with?

I enjoy using precious and semi-precious stones.

What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?

Watermelon Ice

What inspired this design?

At the top of the Beartooth Mountains you'll find the only tundra in the lower 48 states. As Spring glistens on the watermelon glacier, the ice shines green and pink due to the algae trapped within the ice crystals.

How did it come together?

I started with a vision and allowed the piece to transform and take on a life of its own.

When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?

 began beading about five years ago for family and friends.

Who introduced you to beading?

was introduced to beading about five years ago by one of my daycare clients. She showed me some basic beading techniques and the rest has been self-taught.

How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®?

I found Fire Mountain Gems and Beads after a search for beads on Yahoo.

What other hobbies do you have?

I enjoy spending time with my family and pets.

What role does jewelry-making play in your life?

Jewelry-making is a part-time job. I have owned a daycare/preschool for the past ten years. I find jewelry-making to be relaxing and it allows me to escape to a peaceful, rewarding state of mind.

If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?

In attempt to market myself, over the past year I have had an ad in Cowboys and Indians magazine, attended the Denver trade show twice and have participated in two craft fairs. I also have my pieces in an art gallery in Arizona and three jewelry stores in Wyoming.

Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?

I have donated five pieces to various charity fundraisers in my community during this past year.

Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?

I would advise them to continue to grow and create their artistic visions through jewelry.