I have always had a passion for art. One of my college majors was Art Theory and Practice, and I focused on painting and photography. I went to law school after college. During my years practicing law, it seemed that I had less and less time for any creative pursuits. Eventually, all of my art supplies were gathering dust after not being used for years. This would have been unimaginably sad to me as a child, since art had always played a major role in my life. It was time to re-open that aspect of my life. I thought it would be fun to try something new, so I enrolled in an introductory metalsmithing course at a local Chicago art center.

To my surprise, I found that I loved metalsmithing even more than all my past creative pursuits. Torches, me, and hot metal: a match made in heaven--who would have thought! I felt invigorated and creatively inspired for the first time in a very long time. I have continued to take many metalsmithing courses in order to constantly improve upon my existing skills and learn new techniques that I can incorporate into my pieces. I am inspired by and create modern, clean, and organic designs. I love nature, so I also incorporate natural themes and elements into my work.

Pre-COVID, I had my classes on the weekends and I often stayed late to take advantage of the open studio hours, so it was common for me to be working on my pieces from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at least one day each weekend. I keep a small notebook with me at all times to take down ideas that strike me when I am out and about. While my access to tools is a bit more limited at home, I also work on sawing, filing, sanding, assembling, and cleaning up my pieces at home outside of my class/open studio hours.

Ultimately, I credit the joy brought to me by metalsmithing for inspiring me to not settle for a life devoid of creativity, for pushing me to pursue a more fulfilling life, and for inspiring me to actively take steps to implement the change I wanted in my life. I love sharing the jewelry and art that I create with my friends, family, and the world, which is why I opened my shop here on Etsy.