I started my shop in December 2010 with some simple Christmas earrings I had made out of small ornaments. At that time, I really didn't have time for many hobbies and my main form of art was photography. However, that all changed a month later in January of 2011. I had been injured at work and couldn't walk for nearly three months. That was when Kuukisu Art was born. I started making chainmaille jewelry out of rings I would make myself and when friends would visit, they would encourage me to keep making new things and even started to buy some of my creations. That was when I decided to open my etsy shop.
After recovering from my injury and returning to work, I found a new job that was much better for me, and was able to continue my hobby. Since then, it has expanded into other forms of art as well. These days, I do my art full time and love every second of it! I've been told that I see things differently than other people. I can also be found set up at local events. I enjoy challenges, trying new things, and encourage custom commissions.
My inspiration to start making chainmaille came from watching a friend of mine who used to travel with the medieval faire make rings in her off time. It was something I always wanted to try and so I did. Now I love working with various metals and have expanded from just chainmaille jewelry to metal etching and forming! I hope to continue expanding my metal working knowledge.
The glass portion of my art came from befriending a local glass shop owner. I always enjoyed looking at all of her glass pieces. Back in 2012, I learned how to work with fuse glass at a local place and fell in love! I eventually hope to learn to do glass blowing as well.
This year, I have learned to crochet, so expect some of that to start making appearances in the shop in the near future. I’m self taught and one of my best friends filled in the gaps in teaching me a few things. My first project was a big, soft, warm blanket. Then I followed it up with some other projects that were gifts. I can’t wait to do more and share what I make with the world!
These days I gain a lot of my inspiration from my environment around me. I spend a lot of time in nature and love adding in natural elements and materials into my pieces as well as up-cycling when possible. I am always expanding and always learning, so expect to see ever evolving and new things appear!