I live in Juneau, Alaska so materials are hard to come by…for a good price. I use a lot of found objects and recycled materials to create my work. For me, it not only saves over head costs but helps my customers feel good about wearing something that has not been mass produced, is eco friendly AND still looks chic. It’s a delicate balance trying to create work with recycled materials that looks hip and cool, all the while being earth friendly.
What Kind Of Materials Are You Using?
I think the real question is what materials don’t I use… Everything but the kitchen sink. Just kidding, no all joking aside I try to find materials that have already stood up against the test of time and came out looking a little rough around the edges but still beautiful.
Some of the materials that fit this description are, vintage belts (for the leather bracelets) antique barn nails from a 100 year old barn in Vermont, some barns and an old burn downed theater in Minnesota. I use antique watch parts, vintage child game pieces and old skeleton keys as well.
What Got You Started Jewelry Crafting?
For years I was a wanderer. I loved to create but was not sure where I fit in the art category. I adore photography and went to school for that thinking it’s all I ever wanted. And then I started tinkering one day in the garage and it was as if I found the missing piece to my puzzle. Have you ever built a really huge jig saw puzzle? Let’s say a 2-3000 piece? And you come down to that last piece and place it where it is supposed to go, stand back and say “Wow, that took a long time to figure out but I love what I’m seeing right now.” That’s me, I’m that puzzle, it took a long time to figure out where I belong but now that I’ve found my place I’m running with it.
How and/or Where Do You Sell Your Jewelry?
Well of course first and foremost is Etsy. I feel like Etsy and all my customers there gave me my big break. I also sell at Tiffany Blues House of Style in Couer D’Alene, Idaho. Lolo’s Boutique in Spokane, Washington. And in September I will debut Steampunk Funk to Juneau, Alaska with Kodiak Coats.
What Is Your Source of Inspiration?
My inspiration comes from all around me. I take my camera with me almost everywhere and will capture moments that will trigger an idea. I love to browse through my art history books, old barns and farms always conjure up great designs and of course nature is a big contributor.
Why Handmade Jewelry?
Handmade means craftsmanship, time, care, a kind of quality that is lost in machines and mass production. It means that the customer can come directly to the designer and artist with their ideas and thoughts. Forming relationships with my customers is one of my favorite things about handmade jewelry. I love to hear the story of what my pieces mean to them. When you make handmade jewelry, it’s sort of like giving a little piece of yourself away.
I choose handmade jewelry over other products available in the market place because I know that with handmade I’m getting something that was poured over, thought out, delicately handled with care and pride.
Find me on:
www.steampunkjunk.blogspot.com
www.etsy.com/shop/steampunkfunk
Featured Jewelry Artist: The Jewelry Observer Interviews Angie Lawlar Copyright © 2011 The Jewelry Observer All Rights Reserved.
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