My path to becoming a Metalsmith / Jewelry Designer.
For as long as I can remember I’ve had a creative side, whether it was drawing, painting or crafting, I enjoyed exploring different forms of art. I have always loved learning new things, and I still consider myself a “forever student”.
I attended college in Rochester, NY and London, England where I majored in business and marketing. Being placed in an accelerated business program often left little time for art, but I managed to include a few art classes in my schedule.
In my mid-twenties I moved from rural western New York state to Brooklyn, NY to further my career in the television industry in New York City. Working in the hectic, crazy, fun world of live television, made me seek a creative outlet to relieve stress. I discovered a beginner wire-wrapping jewelry class and quickly fell in love with making jewelry. The ability to create pieces that matched my outfits without the hassle of going from store to store was liberating. Soon, friends and colleagues began asking to buy my jewelry.
Fast forward more than a decade and we were house hunting in Connecticut. While looking at houses with our realtor, I was introduced to the Brookfield Craft Center. After moving to Connecticut, I began taking metal smithing classes at BCC and quickly fell in love with using metal. I love the process of taking a flat piece of metal or a straight piece of wire and creating shapes, forms, textures and sculptures.
Many of my designs have been inspired by elements in architecture and nature. My work is characterized by a minimal, timeless and classic aesthetic. I enjoy creating designs that can be worn with anything from a T-shirt and jeans to a dress. And then there is the side of me that likes to experiment with adding non-traditional elements to jewelry – things like resin and alcohol inks, adding unique touches to my jewelry.
How did I start teaching? Teaching was never something I considered until a volunteer at Brookfield Craft Center approached me about a private class. Afterwards she reached out to the executive director and recommended that I teach at BCC. Although hesitant at first, I agreed and taught my first Basic Metalsmithing class. I appreciated the opportunity to design a class I wished had existed when I began my journey in metalsmithing.
Students often ask about my favorite tools, and I am quick to admit I am a “tool junkie”. One of my favorites is a tiny, well-used hammer that belonged to my grandfather. Despite its worn appearance, it creates the best texture on metal and holds sentimental value for me.
I’ve had my work featured in Connecticut Magazines Holiday Gift Guide, Handmade Magazine and News12. You can find my pieces in galleries, art centers and stores around Connecticut and New York.