'Hard Work'

I've been working hard in my studio, getting ready for my first "deadline" of the year. I am participating in the Third Annual Art Jewelry Trunk Show, Feb. 8-9 at Yorktown Arts Foundation's On The Hill Gallery. I am a YAF member and Gallery volunteer, and I have organized this event with other members since the first year.

This year promises to be the best yet. Including me, there will seven jewelry artists who will show and sell their work. It's just in time for Valentine's Day, so it's a great opportunity to get something for your someone special -- or yourself.

Below are a few of the pieces I'll be bringing to the show.

Earrings, pendants and rings I’ll be bringing to the Third Annual Art Jewelry Trunk Show at On The Hill Gallery.

Getting back to "hard work" in my studio...I put "hard work" is in quotes because when things are going well, it doesn't feel hard or like work at all. These are times when the solder is flowing where I want it, I'm not melting bezels or earring posts and pieces are coming together as I imagined. I'm so focused on what I'm doing that I don't get hungry or thirsty, and the time just zips by.

I love what I do, and only regret that I didn't start on this jewelry journey when I was younger.

So, I hope to see you at the show. Until then, I’m going back to “work.”

Come See Me in Person!

In the next few weeks, you will have TWO opportunities to meet me and see my work in person. I'm participating in The Hermitage Museum's Handmade Festival (in Norfolk, Virginia) on Saturday, Sept. 14, and the Yorktown Arts Foundation's Art Stroll on Sunday, Sept. 29.

During events, I learn a lot in a short amount of time. What sells? What doesn't? Who is buying my work? As I mentioned in a previous post, I'm a fan of Project Runway. One of the questions that the judges and mentors always ask is, "Who is your customer? Who is your girl?"

Based on who has purchased my work, my customer is pretty much just like me!

Good information, because I know myself pretty well. But it also shows that I have some work to do to if I want to expand my audience of potential customers.

So come see me this month. Look at my jewelry and tell me what you like (and don't like). Don't worry about offending me; as an artist, a thick skin is necessary. If you don't make it to these events, I’d love your feedback in the comments.

See you under the tent!

The Hermitage Handmade Festival happens on Saturday, Sept. 14.

The Hermitage Handmade Festival happens on Saturday, Sept. 14.