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April's Blossoms
Amethyst Garden
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' Jewelry-Making Contest 2011 featuring Pearls, Organic Beads and Molding Clay
Finalist |
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Meet the Designer-Artist
Where do you live?
Pasco, Washington
What inspires you as a designer-artist?
The world around me, with its infinite colors, forms and diversity.
What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
April's Blossoms
What inspired this design?
The lovely coral German Tulips of Lucite® made me think of a garden in Berlin.
How did it come together?
After choosing the German Star Tulips, I experimented with different companion flowers and leaves and then chose from an array of colors and shapes, pearls, crystals, and double-plated Sterling chain.
Share Your Background
When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
Four years ago I needed a necklace for a family portrait. I finally found the right color and texture of beads at Wal-Mart, strung them together in a pleasing arrangement, looked at the finished product and thought, "That's it?" I didn't even know about crimp covers. Then, my dear mother-in-law wanted me to remake some necklaces for her out of unused or broken jewelry, and what started as a useful talent became a hobby, then an obsession and then an addiction.
Who introduced you to beading?
No one. I have taken one class in Wire-Wrapping and learned everything I know from Beading Magazines and observation.
Do you have an artistic background?
I have just recently come to the realization that making my kind of jewelry, with its diverse use of Lucite and Czech Glass Flowers and leaves, and the use of Gemstones, Crystals, and Pearls is an extension of the 12 years of Art Classes and the Minor in Art I received. From the use of charcoal and paper, to oils and canvas, and then on to modeling clay, interior and landscape design, cooking and creating recipes, to jewelry-making--it is all an outlet for my art and helps me create something beautiful.
How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®?
Advertisements in beading magazines.
What other hobbies do you have?
At this time I am still cooking and creating recipes, making collector's wands (Wands by GrandMère), and helping my grandchildren discover new ways to look at the world and see the possibilities within themselves.
Beading Success
What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
Making beautiful jewelry is a pastime that quickly emerged into a relaxing hobby and has since become a full-time career that offers me an escape to a calm world of unlimited possibilities.
If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?
I am currently selling full time on Etsy and have begun selling at Arts and Craft Fairs. This next year I will begin selling at the Richland, Washington Friday Farmer's Market.
Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?
I have used my art to help Habitat for Humanity.
Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Open your eyes and your imagination to the possibilities of design. Do not be afraid to ask established jewelry makers your questions--We all tend to want to share our passion. |
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