Slowmade: Nourishing Conversations for Jewelry Artists and Metalsmiths
Slowmade is a podcast for independent jewelry artists and metalsmiths, hosted by Christine Mighion, a jewelry artist and business owner. The show explores how to build a handcrafted business and life aligned with personal values and creativity. Through conversations with artists worldwide, it shares honest stories about successes, challenges, and lessons learned. The goal is to help listeners create financially sustainable and purpose-driven businesses.
Episodes
David Forshee: Opals, Small Spaces, & the Beauty of Figuring It Out
David Forshee is the jewelry and lapidary artist behind David Forshee Jewelry.In this episode, David and I talk about the early years of learning a craft and the many small decisions, experiments, tools, and mistakes that slowly shape a maker’s path. David works with mixed metals, opals, and gemstones, and much of his work begins with the stone itself.David shares how jewelry making first found hi
Tzipora Hoynik - Beautiful Excess and a Lifetime of Creating in Color
In this episode of Slowmade, I’m talking with Los Angeles jewelry artist Tzipora Hoynik.Tzipora has been making and selling jewelry for around forty years, but her creative life began long before that. As a little girl, she told her father she wanted to be an artist, even though she didn’t yet know exactly what that meant. Over the years, that pull toward making has taken many forms, from drawing
Marie Kappenman: Making Art, Making Money & Letting Go of the Starving Artist Story
Marie Kappenman is the artist behind Notions of Lovely Jewelry, and she has built a creative business by gathering skills wherever she could find them, trusting her instincts, and refusing to accept the old idea that artists are somehow destined to struggle.In this conversation, Marie shares how she first discovered metalsmithing as a teenager, what she learned from working throughout the jewelry
Kathleen Wille - High Five Lemon and the Gift of Almost Perfect
In this episode, I’m sitting down with Kathleen Wille, the artist behind High Five Lemon, for a warm and honest conversation about stones, perfectionism, custom work, and the deeply personal nature of making things by hand.Kathleen shares the story behind the name High Five Lemon, which began with her beloved pug, Lemon, and grew into a meaningful reflection on imperfection, handmade work, and the
Beth Judge - When It's Finally Your Turn to Come Home to Your Creative Self
In this episode, I’m joined by jewelry artist Beth Judge for a conversation about the long and winding creative path, the seasons of life when our own dreams get placed on hold, and what it means to finally come back to the artist within.Beth’s love of jewelry began in high school, where she was lucky enough to have access to a metalsmithing program that introduced her to soldering, sawing, stone
Leora Coronel - Cutting River Stones & Making Jewelry with a Sense of Place
In this episode of the Slowmade Podcast, I’m talking with jewelry and lapidary artist Leora Coronel.Leora lives in Northern California, where her work is deeply connected to the Yuba River. She collects stones from the river, cuts them herself, and transforms them into jewelry that carries a strong sense of place.Our conversation begins with the long and winding path that led Leora into jewelry. F
Francesca Kennedy - Making Without Rules: Following Instinct & Creative Curiosity
On this episode of the Slowmade Podcast, I’m joined by artist and jeweler Francesca Kennedy for a deeply thoughtful conversation about creativity, instinct, imagination, and making without rigid rules.Francesca has spent decades creating, first in clothing design in the Bay Area and later in jewelry, and one of the things I loved most about this conversation was her willingness to stay open creati
Norah Payne - Following What Feels Like You & Rebuilding a Life Through Metalsmithing
Norah Payne first found her way to metalsmithing years ago before stepping away from it for over a decade. When she returned, it wasn’t with a clear plan, but as something to hold onto during a deeply isolated time—something that slowly became the work she couldn’t imagine letting go of.In this episode, we talk about building a body of work over time, following what feels right, and designing intu
Cole Rodger - When Is It Time for Professional Jewelry Photography? Why Your Jewelry Photos Might Be Holding You Back.
If you’ve ever struggled with photographing your jewelry—or wondered if it might be time to invest in professional images—this conversation is going to give you a lot to think about.Today I’m joined by jewelry photographer Cole Rodger, whose work many artists in our industry trust to bring their pieces to life. Cole didn’t start out planning to photograph jewelry, but through years of experience i
Ray & Amy Bridewell: The Art & Science of Creating Gemstones and Designing Jewelry Around Them
Amy and Ray Bridewell share a creative partnership that brings together two very different backgrounds — metalsmithing and ceramics — in a way that feels both natural and entirely their own.Ray creates the stones, growing crystal gemstones in a kiln through a process shaped by heat, time, and years of experimentation. Amy then takes those one-of-a-kind stones and transforms them into jewelry, focu
Kate Weber: Pricing Your Work, Protecting Your Voice, and Staying True to the Craft
Kate Weber of Night Swim Designs joins me to talk about finding her way to metalsmithing during the uncertainty of 2020 after being furloughed from the travel industry. What began as something to fill the time quickly became a path she couldn’t imagine leaving, and working with metal felt like a language she already understood — a mix of creativity, structure, and problem-solving that finally clic
ENCORE: Kerin Rose - Jewelry as a Bridge Between the Concrete World and the Soul-Based World & the Impact of Selling Art on Your Relationship to Creativity
Originally aired August 21, 2024, this is not only one of your favorite episodes, it's one of mine!I’m sure you know how it feels when you meet someone new at an event and within a few minutes you feel you’ve found a kindred spirit? Someone who speaks your language.Well, that is how I felt when I met Kerin Rose… and it’s not because Rose was my maiden name. Kerin was a member of a metalsmithing co
Rachel Morris: What’s Waiting in the Box of Unfinished Things
Rachel Morris is a metalsmith, educator, and business consultant whose creative life has taken many turns — from early metalwork at age eight to theater, teaching, and even circus camp along the way. Through it all, metal has remained the steady thread.In this conversation, Rachel shares how teaching has shaped her own craft, why evolving your work sometimes means stepping outside of cohesion, and
Suzanne Schwartz: Stitching a Life Around the Work
In this episode, I sit down with jewelry artist Suzanne Schwartz. Suzanne shares the story behind her signature stitched metal work and how handwork, memory, and influence quietly shape her designs. We talk about how her grandmother’s love of stitching and textiles left a lasting imprint, and how that thread continues to run through her jewelry today.The conversation also explores the realities of
Janine DeCresenzo: Playing the Long Game as a Working Artist (Art Shows, Business Shifts, & Sustainability)
In this episode of Slowmade, I’m joined by Janine DeCresenzo, a studio jeweler who has spent more than twenty years supporting herself through her craft — largely on the art show circuit.Janine shares what it’s really been like to build a life around travel, art festivals, and face-to-face connection with customers, and what that path has taught her about community, stamina, safety, and the long g
The Question I’m Hearing the Most Right Now: On Choosing Support During Uncertain Times
Lately, I’ve been hearing the same question come up again and again — in DMs, emails, and quiet conversations with other jewelry artists:Should I be working with a coach right now?In this bonus episode, I’m sharing an honest reflection from my own experience — what I’ve learned after investing in courses, coaching, and masterminds over the years, what ultimately felt supportive (and what didn’t),
ENCORE: Robin Wade - Breathing Life Into Art to Create Meaningful Talismans & Healing Deep Wounds Through a Personal Art Practice
My guest today is Robin Wade and I think she has really mastered the art of weaving in story to each one of her pieces imbuing them with life and personality. I’ve loved her jewelry for a long time, but I’ve recently fallen head over heels in love with her ceramic rattles which you will hear us talk about today.Robin’s journey as an artist began in high school, when her art teacher recognized she
ENCORE: Laura Bouton on Metalsmithing - A Family Affair, Finding Empowerment Through Craft, & Designing for Love and Livelihood
Laura Jane Bouton is one of the metalsmith’s I’ve had the pleasure of being in community with for some time now, but there was so much I really didn't know about Laura. I was simply thrilled when she agreed to share some time with me for a long overdue conversation. Laura’s mother was a metalsmith and her son studied goldsmithing while they lived abroad in Italy, but it wasn’t until she could feel
Allison Ford: The Art of Curiosity, Wearable Sculpture, and Creating Beyond Defined Lines
Allison Ford is a studio artist and educator whose work lives in the in-between — between jewelry and sculpture, storytelling and adornment, play and meaning. Based in Indianapolis, she has been part of the Harrison Center community since 2009, building a creative life shaped by curiosity, community, and a deep commitment to handmade work.In this episode, Allison shares her winding path back to ma
Elisa McLaughlin: Art as a Way Back to Who We Are.
In this episode, I’m talking with artist and goldsmith Elisa McLaughlin, the creative artist behind Truly Kindred. Elisa’s path has wound through watercolor, music, candle making, and raising five kids — all of which eventually led her to the jewelry bench. Her reflections on finding goldsmithing, navigating her first real creative dry spell, and learning to trust the natural rhythm of inspiration
Catherine Marche: When Curiosity Leads in Craft & How Jewelry Becomes a Reflection of the Soul
In this episode, I sit down with Catherine Marche, a French-born goldsmith and designer now based in London, whose jewelry feels alive with movement, color, and emotion. Catherine’s journey to the bench wasn’t a straight path — she began her career as a computer scientist before following her curiosity into the world of fine jewelry.We talk about how her life of travel and discovery has shaped her
Susan Wachler: The Alchemy of Emotion and Metal & the Courage to Create Honestly
What does it really mean to live a creative life that’s true — not tidy, not performative, but real?In this conversation, jewelry artist Susan Wachler shares her journey from a multi-generational family of jewelers to her own late-in-life return to the bench after decades as a psychotherapist. Her work carries the weight of both lineage and lived experience — raw, textural, and deeply human.We tal
Laney Clark - The Girl with the Saw: Lessons from 35 Years at the Bench
Have you ever had a season in your creative life where slowing down wasn’t a choice—it was the only option left? Maybe your body demanded rest or maybe the joy of making faded under pressure and you started to wonder if you had lost that spark for the work that you once loved so much.That’s where today’s conversation begins.Laney Clark—known to many as Silent Goddess—has been making jewelry for mo
Joy Kruse: Balancing Growth, Grit, & the Love of Making Jewelry
Have you ever wondered if you can truly grow your business when you love to make every piece with your own two hands?It was a question that came up in my own growing business many years ago and it’s a question that comes up often in this community — how do you scale without losing the soul of your work? How do you expand, maybe even hire help, but still keep that direct connection to what you’re c
Tiffany Chou: Making, Advocacy, and the Heart Behind Depo Market
Today I’m talking with Tiffany Chow, jewelry artist and founder of Depo Market on Maui — a beautiful little shop that’s part boutique, part community, and entirely built from love.Tiffany’s path has been anything but ordinary. After studying at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and running a successful jewelry line in New York, she felt an intuitive pull to move home to Hawaii. That decis
Dawn Hemstreet: On Burnout, Resilence, & Redefining Success
In this beautiful conversation, I’m talking with jewelry artist Dawn Hemstreet of Hawk, Hummingbird & Moon. Dawn has this thoughtful, unfiltered way of sharing her story that I know will pull you right in. She came to jewelry later in life, around 49, and her path is such a reminder that it’s never too late to listen to that tug inside and step into something new.In our conversation, Dawn talk
ENCORE: Teresa Kiplinger - The Intersection of Poetry and Jewelry, Art as a Medium for Grief, & Reflections on Age and Artistic Freedom
A graphic designer and lifelong poet, Teresa Kiplinger came to metal later in life as a way to keep herself busy through the end of a painful marriage. Not long after, she experienced the unimaginable loss of her teenaged stepson. Wearing her pain like a heavy cloak, she turned to her metalwork and poetry to work through her grief, making a bracelet in his memory, etched with a poem to him. This b
ENCORE: Karen Higgins - The Pursuit of Creativity: Leaping Into Full Time as a Jewelry Artist and Flying
Karen Higgins is a self taught artist who has had a life long fascination with the natural world, its interconnectedness and intelligent design. Her work combines silver clay and traditional metalsmithing methods to showcase the beauty and elegance found in roadside weeds, bits of shell, feather and seed pods that one might otherwise overlook, but we are always surrounded by. Karen is not only a t
Karla Hackman: From Higher Ed to Handmade, Balancing Structure and Soul
Karla Hackman’s path into metalsmithing began in the most unexpected of ways—through a background in academia, ceramics, and a love of collecting stones on long hikes. Karla eventually traded in a steady career in higher education for the leap into jewelry, and over the last twelve years she’s built a body of work that balances the organic and the architectural, the soft and the strong.In our conv
Stacey Hareid: Honoring Process, Patience & the Artist's Path
Stacey Hareid is a self-taught metalsmith who’s been carving out her own path for more than a decade, teaching herself fabrication, stone setting, and even lapidary along the way. More recently she’s been diving into wax carving and casting — a process that’s been both exciting and, as she shares, incredibly humbling.In our conversation, Stacey opens up about her journey from photography into meta
Chela Gurnee: Intuitive Making, Spiritual Work & the Medicine of Imperfect Paths
Chela Gurnee is a metalsmith, shamanic practitioner, hypnotherapist, and reiki healer—and she’s one of those rare people who allows herself to follow what’s calling, even when it doesn’t fit into a tidy box.We talk about how her love of creating beauty with her hands led her to jewelry, her love of stones and how the stones themselves guided her deeper into energy work, and how shamanic practices,
Heather Croston & Talulet Jewelry - The Path Isn't Always Linear: Trusting Your Creative Evolution
Heather Croston of Talulet Jewelry has taken more than a few unexpected turns. She moved from narrative metalsmithing into toy design, and now she’s returned to jewelry with a new rhythm and a voice that’s wholly her own.Heather creates one-of-a-kind pieces that feel like miniature landscapes—stone pairings that echo the Catskills outside her window, soft textures and patterns that carry a sense o
Renee Ford of Renee Ford Metals - 30 Years at the Bench, Creative Shifts, & Returning to What Feeds the Soul
Renee Ford, now Renee Busdiecker, has been working in metal for over 30 years, and her path has taken her through so many versions of this life—from grad school to running her own brick-and-mortar fine jewelry store in her twenties, to creating a production line that landed in shops around the world. She’s taught all over the country, mentored students from her studio in Tennessee, and developed t
SuzAnne Taylor: From Battlefield to Bench, a Metalsmith's Healing Journey
SuzAnne Taylor is a silversmith and artist whose journey into jewelry began as an act of survival. After serving as a combat medic in Iraq, she returned home carrying invisible wounds and found herself struggling to reconnect with everyday life. It was during a stay at a VA hospital that her psychiatrist encouraged her to find a hobby—something to do with her hands, something to focus her energy.
Jennifer Young - The Intentional Path: Finding Rhythm, Ritual, and Creative Wholeness
Jennifer Young is one of those multi-talented souls who’s followed a winding, wholehearted path—through fine art, architecture, time living in Japan, and months on the road with her family in an Airstream. She makes soulful jewelry full of story. And in the corner of her studio, she’s created a small but intentional shop curated with beautiful handmade objects from around the world, all rooted in
Julianne Van Buskirk - The Creative's Dance: Flow, Frustration, and the Joy of Making
If you’ve ever felt that tug-of-war between creativity and business, or struggled with the balance of freedom and financial pressure, you’re going to feel so seen in this episode.Julianne is a maker in the truest sense—her work is soulful, organic, and deeply connected to the natural world. We talk about her journey from teacher to metalsmith, the unexpected start she got thanks to her husband’s o
Doug Napier - Creating Jewelry Wrapped in Story, Finding the Bigger Purpose to Our Work, & More Wisdom from the Jewelry Monk
In this episode, I sit down with Doug Napier—a thoughtful, seasoned artist with decades of experience in the jewelry world. Doug shares stories from his early days at the bench and how a lifetime of global adventures shaped the way he sees and approaches his craft today.We talk about what it means to stay adaptable in a changing industry, how to balance time-honored techniques with modern tools, a
Margaret Graham - Holding Space in Silver: A Story of Healing and Creative Purpose
Margaret Graham is the talented artist behind Centering Pendants—a jewelry collection that blends mindfulness, intention, and emotional healing. Margaret’s creative path began in ceramics, but it was through jewelry—and the creation of her signature Centering Pendants—that she discovered a way to connect deeply with herself and others.In our conversation, Margaret opens up about how making jewelry
Karin Luvaas - On Designing with Intention and Giving Stones a Voice
Karin Luvaas creates one-of-a-kind jewelry that highlights the natural beauty of hand-cut gemstones. Inspired by the rich hues, patterns, and textures of the earth, she carefully selects rare and unexpected stones to showcase in her designs. With a focus on color, craftsmanship, and refined simplicity, her work transforms organic materials into modern, elegant pieces that spark curiosity and joy.“
Beth Aimee - From Neurobiology to Metalsmithing, Evolving as an Artist, & Building Your Working Vocabulary
In this engaging conversation, Christine Mighion interviews Beth Aimee, a talented jeweler who shares her journey from childhood experiences in the Appalachian mountains to her current work in jewelry design. Beth discusses her transition from a career in neurobiology to teaching and eventually to metalsmithing, highlighting the influence of nature on her artistic process. The conversation delves
Rebecca Connell - MopTop Jewelry on Unapologetically Pushing the Pause Button on Business to Care for Herself
In this conversation, Christine Mighion interviews Rebecca Connell, a metal clay artist known for her work with MopTop Jewelry. They discuss Rebecca's journey into jewelry making, her creative process, the importance of photography in presenting her work, and the challenges she faced transitioning to full-time jewelry making. The conversation also touches on health issues, including perimenopause
Brittany Foster - When It's Time for a Change in Business and in Life
Brittany Foster shares her journey from being a custom jeweler in Minneapolis to finding her artistic voice in the serene woods of northern Minnesota. She discusses the challenges and joys of transitioning from commissioned work to personal expression, the inspiration she draws from nature and science, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for creativity. Brittany also reflects o
Amy Schmidt: On Balancing Life, Writing a Book, and Creating Salt City Smithery - A Teaching Studio for the Community
Have you ever thought about writing a book, or perhaps even creating a community studio to teach and work from? If so, I think you will love this conversation with my guest Amy Schmidt. Amy shares her journey into the world of metalsmithing, her passion for the craft, falling in love with teaching and then eventually establishing Salt City Smithery - a teaching and working studio. Amy also reflect
Lynn Samis: They Can Only Say No, Listening for the Story Your Art Wants to Tell, & Embracing Your Artistic Voice
Lynn Samis is a talented fine arts portrait painter with a modern, abstract, and colorful approach to her work. Her work bridges between cultures as a reminder of our common ground. It speaks to those who believe everyone deserves a place and a voice, especially in today’s divided world. Her desire is that when viewing her paintings, you can reflect, connect, and maybe even see a bit of yourself i
Michelle Pajak-Reynolds: Creating Future Heirlooms, Environmentally Sensitive and Ethical Metalsmithing Practices, & Pricing for Success
Michelle Pajak Reynolds quite literally began creating jewelry as a young girl, inspired by the tiara and cuff bracelets she saw Linda Carter wear while playing Wonder Woman. She carried that passion through high school, eventually earning a BFA in Jewelry/Metals from Kent State and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Baldwin-Wallace University.We cover a lot of ground in this interview, including the
Kelly Bussio: When Everything Changes - Finding Love, Craft, and Community After Tragedy
Kelly Bussio was critically injured in an airplane crash 28 years ago where her husband, Brent, and a dear friend were both killed. She became paralyzed from the armpits down and spent many months laying flat on her back grieving. Not too long after, Kelly retired from her fast paced corporate job and began metalsmithing classes. It was there she fell in love with metal and stone. Kelly has adapte
Heather John: Inspired by the Stones, The Therapeutic Nature of Making, & Finding Your People
I met Heather John when she joined the Slowmade Collective many months ago and have really enjoyed getting to know her during our events. Her work is a beautiful marriage of organic and modern design, with masculine and feminine elements, and show stopping gemstones. Today we discuss Heather's journey into jewelry making not that long ago, finding inspiration from the gemstones she uses, and t
Robert Thomas Mullen: The Economics of Being an Artist & the Value of Fostering Strong Connections within the Jewelry Community
I have to say that I was a little nervous initially when I thought of sitting down with Robert Thomas Mullen. He has a list of artistic accomplishments that would make many of us feel a bit “impostery” as artists. However, it didn’t take long for me to relax into our conversation and see that Robert, though extremely talented, had times when he doubted his own work, felt blocked, and experienced m
Carrie Haase: The Love of Craft and the Challenges of Being a Solopreneur, Finding Balance, & Prioritizing Self-Care
In a perfect world we could just sit at our benches and create while someone else handled the business side of things, marketing, and social media. But for most of us, we need to do it all and some days doing it all feels defeating and like we just can’t do enough. Today, you’ll hear my conversation with Carrie Hasse which happened right after she finished a couple of very demanding shows includin
Sara Biniecki: A Mindful Approach to Making, Creativity as a Lifeline, & Honoring Those We Love Through Practicing Our Art
Have you ever considered the notion that we should live our lives to the fullest and follow our dreams even if it scares the hell out of us, because just maybe those that we love weren’t able to follow their dreams?
I think of the many times that I’ve encouraged my children to follow their hearts and not to let fear hold them back, because I wasn’t “allowed” to follow my dreams until I was much o
Laura Stamper: The Spiritual Practice of Creating - Embracing Play, Exploration, Mistakes, and the Beauty of Imperfection
From the very beginning, art has been the driving force in Laura Stamper’s life. As a child, she couldn't resist the urge to draw. And when paper wasn’t immediately available during a creative moment the walls of her room were the next best thing.
Laura considers herself an artist of multiple mediums and she still has a very strong love affair with painting.
During our conversation Laura and
Carol & Michael Schwarz: Inspired by the Mana of Maui - Living a Creative Life Off-Grid and in Harmony with the Land
Carol and Michael Schwarz are both accomplished goldsmiths, not only living on Maui, but thriving as artists. They are now winding down in their careers and enjoying a slower, more balanced life tending to their land and creating beautiful gold jewelry with the mana of the island running through each piece.
When I found Carol and Michael I was intrigued by their off grid lifestyle and their abili
Lisa Carroll: The Silversmith and Her Opal Miner - A Family Legacy Rooted in Craft and Mining
If you’ve ever wished you could create all your jewelry from gemstones you’ve discovered, you’ll love this conversation with my guest today.
Lisa Carroll is a silversmith and self-proclaimed treasure hunter from Australia who recently joined the Slowmade Collective. She loves incorporating Australia’s beautiful Lightening Ridge opals into work, but an even bigger thrill is going down into the min
ENCORE: Ace McCasland - The Long & Adventurous Road to Becoming Studio Luna Verde, Wildcrafted Jewelry, Embracing Imperfection, and Pushing Boundaries
I'm sharing an encore of this fan favorite episode on New Year's Day while I take a little break.
Ace McCasland, a metalsmith and jewelry artist, shares her journey and creative process in this conversation with Christine. Ace started Studio Luna Verde and creates unique, eclectic, and out-of-the-box jewelry, which she fittingly describes as "wildcrafted jewelry". She draws inspiration from her tr
ENCORE: Julie Mahoney - How a Surprising Shift From Fine Art to Craft Brought Her Peace, Passion, and a Thriving Business
I'm sharing an encore of this fan favorite episode during the Christmas holiday while I take a much needed break.
Restless and never really satisfied with the work she was doing as a painter, Julie Mahoney felt the weight of all the painters who better than her and she was often plagued with self doubt.
Julie spent nearly 30 years as a professor of drawing and painting at a local university befor
Lisa Crowder: When it's Time to Get Off the Hamster Wheel
When I think of Lisa Crowder’s work, I immediately go to her pop art style enameled hearts, lips, and skull pieces. Playful and artistic, I feel like wearing her jewelry would immediately put me in a great mood.
Lisa has a gorgeous studio and gallery space in Austin, TX, and like so many retailers when Covid hit everything came to a screeching and uncertain halt. But as a seasoned artist, her crea
Stacey Curry - Star Hitched Wagon: Slow Intentional Growth, Storytelling at its Best, & The Seamless Blending of Creative Passions
Inspired by the natural beauty of rural Montana, Stacey Curry has been designing jewelry since she was 16. Stacey’s business, Star Hitched Wagon, features thoughtfully handcrafted jewelry and apothecary products reflecting her deep connection to nature, blending the simplicity of the plains with the spirit of the mountains. Each piece encourages individuality while honoring nature and loved ones.
Christina Michie: Creative Castings - When Life Changes in an Instant, Allowing Curiosity to Take the Wheel, & Balancing Multiple Interests
I wouldn’t say I have a love hate relationship with casting, but I would say it’s complicated. On one hand it feels like I really need to gear up for it mentally because each time is an experiment and it’s a long process. But when it works, which thankfully has been more often than not, I’m left with a handful of shiny things to weave into my work. On the days I’ve felt a little more blocked, I’ve
Nora Feldman: Metalhead Jewelry - Born to Be a Rockstar Artist, Taming the Inner Critic, & Showing Up Even When Life Gets Really Hard
As a child growing up in Madison WI, Nora Feldman filled her days creatively, filming short movies and TV commercials, writing and performing songs, choreographing dance routines, painting, drawing, and even designing brochures for imaginary businesses. She scrapbooked, wood-burned, rock-tumbled, sewed, and even took up knitting… But above all else, Nora loved making jewelry.
Surprisingly though,
Kim Sheridan: Metal Objects - An Art Practice Rooted in Curiosity, Maintaining the Joy in Making, & The Value of Simplicity and Community
Today you’ll hear my conversation with Kim Sheridan, maybe better known by her business name Metal Objects. Kim was as delightful to speak with as is her jewelry, which can only be described as colorful, fun, reminiscent of another time, and in her words, perhaps a bit quirky. And fun is one of the things that keeps Kim coming back to her craft again and again. She is curious and enjoys problem so
Jenny Foulkes: Sacred Adornment, Balancing Motherhood, Business and Show Travel, & The Complexities of the Creative Mind
When I sat down to chat with Jenny Foulkes, it soon became apparent (at least in my mind) that we were jewelry sisters from another mother. From the way we approach a design to our cabinets of curiosities filled with tiny sacred objects collected through the years, we seemed to have more in common than we didn’t. Jenny sees her jewelry as sacred objects to be worn, loved, and passed down… and I lo
Twyla Dill: The Transition to Fine Jewelry, Cultivating a Mindset for Success, & Asking for the Sale - The $100k in 55 Days Challenge
Twyla Dill turns intricately crocheted lace into solid metal through the process of casting. Her opulent fine jewelry helps to celebrate the wearer and tap into their own version of sexy. She is proudly queer and hopes to make beautifully unique handmade metal and gemstone jewelry for people in all walks of life and love.
In this conversation, Twyla shares her journey as a jewelry artist, reflecti
Jennifer Lisa: Quench Metalworks - The Reality of Owning a Brick & Mortar, and Pivoting to Reach New Collectors
Jennifer Lisa is known to many by her business name Quench Metalworks. Born and raised in Maine, Jennifer received her BFA in Jewelry and Metalsmithing from the Rhode Island School of Design. Handcrafted in sterling silver and unique gemstones, her jewelry collections are ever-evolving and draw inspiration from the balance of linear elements and organic shapes.
Jennifer took a leap of faith and op
Sarah Breivis: The Hustle, The Healing & Pausing to Craft a More Nourishing Life
Sarah Breivis is not only a talented metalsmith I’ve had the pleasure of knowing for years; she’s also a passionate woodworker, and an avid baker of decadent treats, with a love for exploring far-off places.
What started our as a hobby in a stone carving class 25 years ago, turned into a full time passion. Sarah is a graduate of the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts.
In this episode, Sarah openly sh
Kristin Larson: Peeling Back the Layers - A Conversation of Healing and Coming Home Through Art and Music
Kristin Larson along with and her husband, Richard are the creative duo behind Kristin's eponymous jewelry brand Kristin Larson Jewelry. They met while they were in school and have been a team ever since.
Kristin creates soulful adornments that provide inspiration, comfort, and connection. Each piece is thoughtfully carved from wax and serve as tangible reminders that bring you home to yourse
The Slowmade Collective: A Home & Virtual Sanctuary for Jewelry Artists and Metalsmiths Seeking a Supportive Community and Relevant Business Advice
When I started my business 20 years ago I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I didn’t go to business school and I never dreamed I would one day have my own business. I was as green as it gets.
Looking back I know I never would have received the level of success and security within my business without the support of a group of incredible mentors and colleagues… often when I needed it the most
Andrea Ring: Running Amuck - A Creative Duo's Love Affair with Color, Pattern and Unconventional Materials
Andrea & Bryan Ring are the creative duo behind Amuck Design. They met in college and have been collaborating ever since. Finding inspiration in graffiti, their work is known for its cohesive yet diverse styles, incorporating various materials like vintage pieces, license plates, and dice.
In this conversation, Christine sits down with Andrea and her curious cat Victor. They discuss trade show
Blavk Jewelry, An Intuitive Exploration of Sacred Adornment and Its Capacity for Healing and Protection
Rebecca Lee (she/they) is a metalsmith interested in sacred adornment and its capacity to provide protection and healing for all intersections of marginalized people. Currently, Lee works primarily with sheet metal, hand piercing intuitive undulating shapes that mimic how water impacts our coastlines incorporating minerals and found objects near or in bodies of water. Rebecca also utilizes wax car
Erin Harris: From Social Work to Soul Work & The Art of Creating Meaningful Connections Through Sentimental Jewelry
Erin harris calls herself a “sentimental metalsmith” because that is what she specializes in: sentimental work in metal. Her work features both literal sentiment via the words and phrases she etches into blooming flowers and hinged butterflies, as well as the more intangible emotions evoked in personalized lockets and memorial reliquary.
“I’m inspired by both nature and nostalgia, by love and by
Tracey Carswell: The Soul of a Changemaker, Queer Metalsmiths, Surprising Gifts from a Cancer Diagnosis, & Building Community
Tracey Carswell is the founder of Powerful in Pink and co-founder of Queer Metalsmiths. They work with artists, creatives, and small business owners to support their growth and development. Tracey shares their journey into metalsmithing and their passion for creating jewelry. They also discuss the importance of community support and collaboration in their work. Tracey created Queer Metalsmiths to
Emily Joyce: Improving Your Craft Through Play, What Art School Doesn’t Prepare You For, and a Love of Nostalgia & Mechanisms
Emily Joyce, an enamelist, sculptor, and jewelry maker, discusses her creative process and balancing her work with being a teacher and a mom. She shares her love for mechanisms and creating playful, nostalgic pieces. Emily talks about her struggles with displaying her work at art festivals and her desire to explore new techniques. She also offers one-on-one classes to teach others and finds inspir
Kristen Kendrick Bigley: From Sculpture to Jewelry Making, Finding Beauty in the Unexpected, & Navigating Imposter Syndrome as a Part-Time Jewelry Artist
Kristen Kendrick Bigley, a metalsmith and owner of KKB Metal Studio with a fine arts background, shares her journey to metalsmithing and the influence of her artistic family. She discusses her transition from sculpture to jewelry-making and the challenges of working with different mediums. Kristen also talks about the importance of community and mentorship in her creative process. She shares her e
Anya Chang-DePuy: Wabi Sabi Silver - A Journey That Began In India, Balancing Passions, & Living With Intention on 640 Acres in Colorado
Anya first stumbled across the opportunity to learn the craft of metal smithing while traveling solo in India for 6 months in 2016. Little did she know that her love for the craft would deepen and grow over the years to turn into her own small business of WabiSabi Silver. Anya is committed to living a joyful life that centers around sustainability. She is currently a part of a team that is at the
Liz Kantner & Laryssa Wirstiuk: Defining Your Brand and Telling Your Story, Why You Need to Focus on Building Your Email List, & the Importance of Nurturing Your Audience
In this episode, Christine Mighion talks with Liz Kantner and Laryssa Wirstiuk about marketing for independent jewelry artists. They discuss the challenges of marketing, the importance of branding, and strategies for building a strong brand presence. They emphasize the need for consistency, knowing your audience, and focusing on the bigger picture. They also address the common challenges of time m
Tracey Timmons: Owning Her Creativity and Reaching Higher, & How Connecting Face to Face with Her Potential Customers Has Helped Her Grow Her Jewelry Business
Tracey Timmons is an exhibiting artist and metalsmith who creates one of kind pieces of jewelry. She has been metalsmithing for about 10 years and is mostly self-guided, learning through books, videos, and trial and error. Tracey participates in art shows and exhibits her work, preferring the in-person experience where people can see and touch her creations.
Tracey has recently been accepted to e
Jen Prox-Weisblat: The Value of Community, Organization in the Chaos, & Prioritizing Time for Art, Side Interests, and Family
I’ve sat here for a bit thinking about what I wanted to say about today’s guest. Jen Prox-Weisblat who may be better known by her business name Prox or ProxArtist, is someone I’ve known and admired for a very long time.
I’ve always seen Jen as a prolific jewelry artist, obsessed with quality and detail. Whenever I see a piece she has finished, my first thought is “Man I wonder how long that piec
Kimberly Huestis: From Architecture to Clay and Metal, Creating Her Own Beauty with a Nod to Her Heritage, & the Importance of Being Around Other Creatives
Being the complete stone geek that I am, when I first saw Kimberly Huestis’s jewelry my first thought was “wow, those stones are so cool!” and of course I wondered what they were. As I combed through her gorgeous IG profile It didn’t take long to realize that many of those “quote stones” were not stones at all, but beautiful porcelain cabochons that Kim lovingly handcrafts herself.
Almost instant
Chris Anderson: His Journey From Law Enforcement To Building Lion Punch Forge, Believing in His Vision, & the Metalsmith Collective
Chris Anderson took a very different path into working with metal, yet the fit was undeniably perfect. I'm not going to give all the details away, but after retiring from law enforcement, Chris decided to put all of his energy into his business, Lion Punch Forge.
I was so thrilled when Chris agreed to take some time out of his very busy schedule to have a conversation with me. He shared is jo
Liette Murphy: Working Through the Challenges of Growing a Business, Setting Boundaries, & Discovering What Works For You
When I started my business, I didn’t have much of a plan other than making jewelry and selling it so I could make more jewelry. I found Etsy and at that time it was easy enough to navigate. Everything felt “figure outable” to quote Marie Forleo and for the most part it was during those early months.
Every time I would sell something I felt hopeful that I could really do this. But I really was flyi
Laura Niblack: Proves Them Wrong by Standing in Her Strength & Naturally Blending Passion and Purpose to Build Her Dream Business, The Wild Pine
Have you ever wondered how some makers seem to be able to do it all so damn well? They single handedly run what appears to be busy and successful businesses while creating high volumes of work, that their fans snatch up as soon as the pieces becomes available. They have a large, engaged Instagram following… and why wouldn’t they? They even do Instagram so well… consistently sharing their work, the
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