Hi everyone, I'm a jewelry artist living on the western edge of Iowa. My husband, son and I live with our horses, couple of cows, barn cats, and spoiled dog in the country.
I grew up with my dad making jewelry, and I've been fortunate enough to inherit some of his knowledge and most of his tools. (Every time I visit, I pilfer the basement and manage to find something to take back home with me. Dad doesn't mind, and Mom's just happy to get stuff out of the house.)
I started stringing "beads on a wire" years ago, got bored pretty quickly, and moved on to various metal-based techniques. I primarily work with chainmaille and other cold connect (riveting, wire wrapping, etc.,) techniques, although I've been known to fire up a torch and make something without burning down the house.
Been doing art shows for about 10 years - I have yet to do The Big Shows, but I'm pretty happy with the regional shows that I've been accepted to. My hobbies include sending app fees off to shows that I probably shouldn't think about (haha). YET.
Good to be here, I've read the forums for some time but kept forgetting to sign up until this weekend. I've learned a lot from the members, even if I wasn't posting!
Replies
Hello Lynn and welcome. I'd have a hard time leaving home with the setting you have. It sounds so homespun. Are there many show out your way? Do you find you have to travel far for shows?
I think it is great that you have picked up on your father's craft. I bet his is proud of you.
Well, I hope to see you around the forums now that you are "legal" and have joined us.
Jacki B
Thanks Jacki and Annette!
Jacki, there are a lot shows in the Omaha metro (close to where we are located), but I do travel around the Midwest. My son (17) helps me at a lot of shows, and it's nice bonding time (most of the time, LOL).
I used to get a little nervous showing things to Dad (he was REALLY good - cut and faceted stones, did lost wax casting, all stuff I haven't gotten to yet), but he's always been very supportive and has great tips. I'm really thankful to have had his guidance, and for steering me when I was a kid!