Please introduce yourself and describe your background
What is your earliest memory of creating art?
As a child, I would hide in a closet shared with my sisters and parents, sketching on the backs of receipts because we couldn’t afford paper. Using farm receipts as my canvas didn’t exactly endear me to my parents though but I could capture or at least attempt to capture what I visualized in my brain.
Describe your primary medium and why you’ve chosen it for your artwork
Having collected stones for 40 plus years and in the past 10 years, began attending metalsmithing courses with various local instructors. The first instructor was truly gifted in sharing silversmith techniques to a novice such as myself. That’s where I became hooked!
Jewelry as a medium: It’s mind blowing to blend a fusion of sculpture and contemporary design inspired by movement and balance into asymmetrical silhouettes along with balancing gemstones (for example, a red riding hood pendant)!
What other media have you used?
I’m not sure I truly “learned” to paint while recovering from losing the ability to walk and use my hands a few years back. But as I regained movement, a paintbrush was placed in my hands, and I eventually discovered just how fun painting can be. Don’t worry—I won’t inflict my artwork on you! I simply enjoy getting lost in the mesmerizing flow of paint.
What inspires your work?
Like many jewelers, I find inspiration in my environment that is in nature, architecture, and art. In addition, some of my most compelling ideas come in the middle of the night—I often wake up, sketch a design, and go back to sleep.
If you could spend the day with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Robert ‘Bob’ Lyman, curator for the “Hope Diamond” in the Natural History Museum of the Smithsonian. I think it was in the 1960’s when Bob designed hinges on the prongs of the “Hope Diamond” setting without the aid of a computer and/or a CAD program. He was truly a master jeweler. Bob did things that jewelers can’t do today!
Do you show your work commercially? If so, where?
Yes, I’ve been given the opportunity to exhibit at galleries in Arizona and New Mexico and at art shows in neighboring states as well as in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Chicago and of course, New Mexico.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I’m certain that it comes at no surprise that I studied architecture. But at the time, I was the only female allowed in the class of males and required my parents’ written permission. We’ve come a long way baby!
What advice would you offer younger artists just beginning their art careers?
Become an accountant. Just kidding! Breaking into jewelry design is challenging but absolutely doable. Work towards mastering the craft while building a strong portfolio with your unique style. While gaining experience don’t forget to take time to networking within the industry. But more importantly, have fun along the way!