Friday Finds--Carla Reiter

I recently discovered an intriguing artist through 18KT--Carla Reiter. After studying metalsmithing at Indiana University, Reiter went on to explore the world through studying physics, obtaining a graduate degree in cultural anthropology (which I imagine would have a lot of connections with being a metalsmith), working as a nightclub singer, writer, and museum curator. Throughout all of these experiences, Reiter continued to make jewelry, creating a limited production line of silver with gold leaf fabricated work, and became a full-time metalsmith in 1997.



Her work gives that feeling of historical handmade pieces, while at the same time being extremely intriguing and contemporary. Her knitted pieces combine patinaed silver with elements of copper, gold, diamonds and found objects.

speaking of before and after...

I am painting our living room wall today. Of course, I have to move everything out of the way first, and get paint rollers and step ladders and trays. And tape. And sheets. But, it's getting painted. It's been "blonde" (yellow) for too long. And not a pretty yellow. In most light it looks kind of brown-ish yellow. It will be getting a nice coat of Sugar Berry by Behr paint. Can't wait to show you the "after" shots!

what's in a fuzzy photo?

Before (foggy)


After (crisp & clean)


So, yesterday I was looking through photos I'd taken the night before on the computer. They had appeared clear on the camera screen, and yet, they were fuzzy. I couldn't understand why. So I told Dave I needed to use his camera to take photos. Now Dave is very funny about me using his camera. It's like his security blanket--it goes everywhere with him. I told him my photos weren't coming out right and I need to take good ones to list on Etsy. Being the troubleshooter that he is, he asked a simple question. "Have you cleaned the lens?" My thought...'but I never touch the lens..' Oh, wait, his little sister had borrowed my camera to go to a concert the other night. Hmm. I turn on the camera and look at the lens. There's a distinct greasy fingerprint (she wears a lot of lotion) on the lens. Dave gets out his lens cloth and cleans the lens for me. May the non-fuzzy-photo-taking commence! Just after I paint the living room wall :)

Leaf Hoops

New in my Etsy Shop....Leaf Hoops!

Good-bye Beauties....

Today, I parted ways with some beautiful pieces. One of my favorites--Leaf Necklace, which I made last year as part of my casting class. It is a fun piece with lots of life and movement to it. In addition to that were two Leaf Chains, which are classy and modern. And top it off, a pair of Leaf Earrings to go with the necklaces! They are all going to a wonderful home, which I am very happy about.

A story of seriousness

The other day, one of my quotes was featured on Art Biz Blog, a blog about well, art business. The question was about how to get others to take you and your art work seriously.

Getting others to take you and your work seriously is an interesting situation for a lot of artists. Many of us have friends and family who support our "hobby", but never really think of it as more than that. Then there are the colleagues from school and/or other art related ventures who do take you seriously. And then, there are gallery and shop owners. Now this is a fun one. Some of them loooove the work the way it is. Others want you to completely change it. A few just want a little added detail here and there. Perhaps all of these situations are just what I've experienced.

One family member kept asking, years ago, what I would do after I finished my degree. Go for a teaching degree? Maybe law school! After politely responding, I finally told him "look, I'm not spending $60,000 to not use my degree. I need you to support me on this", and that worked. Another family member has always been supportive of my work, constantly encouraging me to educate myself and think about making jewelry full time instead of looking for a "back-up" career. This has always made me feel positive, inspired, and hopeful.

My friends love my work. I am constantly encouraged by them. They are my advertisers, wearing my pieces that they have received for birthdays and holidays. I have one friend in particular who I turn to in times of strife. He is the most honest, blunt friend I have, and has told me in the past when my work needed help. I have grown, and he has helped me in many ways. I always know he will be honest, and it helps that he indeed loves my work and tells me what an amazing artist I am and to not let anyone get me down. He is a rock for me. It helps that he is also an amazing film maker and designer.

Many gallery and shop owners have loved my work. But, I have been faced with those (one) who wanted me to make a lot of changes. I must acknowledge that when I approached him, I was not as solidified in my ideas and direction as I am now, and I think his reaction would be different now, but the comments that were made, and the fact that he was telling an artist how to change their work definitely made me re-think my desire to have my work in his gallery. It showed a lack of respect for my artistic integrity, and I know that I am a damn good metalsmith. Others, who carry my work and have requests for little changes are different--they are wanting little enhancements because they know what sells in their stores, and I can definitely respect that and work with them.

So, in the face of people that cannot see your art for what it is, turn to those who are supportive and encouraging. Then, really look at your work and remember what it took to get you to where you are. Remember the hurdles and struggles, and remember your skills. And then, embrace yourself and say "I am a damn good artist!" And always, always remember, that you can't please everyone (it's just like with food).

Larvae...

New in my Etsy Shop--Larvae Earrings! Just in time for spring...