A whole new look

This challenge has done several amazing things for me recently and everything seems to be falling into place. Through the month of October I put myself through a challenge that I pursued because I knew I needed the discipline. The discipline to complete a repeating task every day. To accomplish little by little a larger goal I have set in my dreams.

I am definitely a dreamer. I don't go a day without thinking up some wonderful idea for a new design or future plans for the bigger picture. Similar to most people, it is much more difficult to follow through with the dreams and goals I set forth. This challenge forced me to take the next steps toward those goals, and it was totally it.

Every day for a month I posted at least 5 items to my shop. I started out great, every day they were up and shared before the days end (some very late at night) but still they made it!  The purpose was to be consistent. If it had been any other time in my life I may have told myself "I will get that done tomorrow" or "I can finish this in the morning" and then putting it off again and again.

Some items were old pieces I have had laying around or packed up in jewelry boxes and some items are brand new collections. Days where I had the privilege to spend at least a few hours in my studio creating. Always with the hustle by the end of the day to get them photographed and listed.

I was able to share 155 items, some old some new. I was focused on creating new designs that are beginning to define my aesthetic and style.  I found many new ways to create the designs I have in store for the future and am learning the how to document my work and share it.

I have the freedom now to create new pieces without the old ones weighing me down. Most importantly, I was so overwhelmed with all the tasks ahead of me that I was struggling to chose a name and website for my business, which was holding me back.

Now everything just seemed to fall into place through this challenge! I am very excited to announce that my business will have a whole new look that connects my talent and passion with who I am and what I love. A new name, new colors, new logo, and a new beautiful website coming very soon!!

A Dream Without a Plan is just a Wish.

This 5 a day challenge, sure is a challenge! It is keeping me super busy and someday's I think....WHY did I do this challenge right now?!....Why did I promise the WHOLE month...This is not a good time, I am too busy!

Well, it is never a good time to work hard. It is never a good time to push towards a goal. But, if you don't MAKE the time then you will never accomplish anything.

I heard a great quote the other day that's been helping me stay inspired... "A dream without a plan is just a wish."

This was such a great reminder for me as to WHY I started this challenge, because I have a dream. I want to be successful with my jewelry and I want people to adore it. I want to create beautiful things that can be worn and shared and past down.

So, this challenge I have learned a lot about myself. One thing I learned is that I try to make things WAY more complicated then they need to be. I just need to list 5 things, the purpose was mostly to get the hundreds of pieces of jewelry I have ALREADY MADE out there. No Kendall, that does not mean MAKE 5 new things every day. That is surely a good way to fail and that has almost happened several days this week. I spend the whole day created, making, experimenting, with new ideas and designs. Then its 9 pm and I haven't listed a thing.    I have to keep reminding myself WHY I started this challenge and just put out there what I already have.

There are a lot of new designs in process but you will just have to wait! ;)


To catch up on my 5 a Day Challenge read my original post here.
Also, you can see all my new work on my etsy shop listing every day until the end of the month!

"Rad Dads" Wear Jewelry

Custom ring; flames and skulls, sterling silver (top/side of ring)

 "Rad Dad" what his 8 year old son referred to him as for his Fathers day poem. After making this custom ring and getting to know him and his family, I'd say I completely agree!  I knew it would be a fun project after meeting and discussing what he was looking for in such a unique piece of jewelry. He and his wife had been to several shops looking for options to replace his simple wedding band. They wanted something that was a little more him for his guitar playing hands but couldn't find anything that they loved or wasn't manufactured with billions more out there for others to wear.

Custom sterling silver hand carved mans ring (bottom)

"Don wore a Costco platinum band for 15 years and 10 months while we shopped for a band more suitable for his style. One plain ring on the left hand while the right rocked some seriously large rings. Kendall designed a custom, one-of-a-kind ring fitting for a "been in a rock-band now in a church-band " guitar-playing, God-loving, software architect with tattoos and earrings!! He wanted Kendall to create a big ring with skulls and flames. Not cheesy, but cool. Black accents and handmade, not done by machine. I couldn't imagine what she would come up with and the final design is amazing! From 18 skulls with faces to the flames and texture, the ring turned out amazing and fits Don's personality perfectly." -Wendy (the equally rad wife)

Sketching and looking at images of flames and skulls... two things I don't normally spend my time doing and certainly different from my style as a designer. I tend to lean more towards "pretty things", natural organic shapes, inspiration from the ocean and objects from nature, movement of the body and feminine beauty. This design posed as a challenge conceptually and technically; depicting flames and skulls realistically in metal without looking cheesy, like a bad tattoo. 

The overall process of researching, sketching and creating something beautiful for a dainty woman or a rugged man proved to be the same. My aesthetic is still evident in this heavy mans ring. The use of texture, the organic movement of the flames and the depth and detail of the skulls are details that are just as evident in much of my previous work. Whether its a pretty butterfly on a flower or a fire breathing dragon you will know they were made by the same two hands. My artistic expression naturally stepped in as my fingers went to work and I am happy to know it was not lost in the fire. 

As an artist it can sometimes be difficult to create something specifically for someone else. I worry that by creating what other people want me to make instead of what I want to make I may lose myself as artist. The artistic freedom and creativity that comes with experimentation, inspiration and ides; never to worry about satisfying a boss, instructor or client. That idea that sounds so appealing when you decide to quit your job or go to art school in the first place. 

Flames; Sterling Silver (Top view)

I realized after this project that creative freedom still exists even when doing a custom design. I do have to satisfy a client but my design, my creativity and my aesthetic will shine through. Not only did they see my previous work and like my style but they wanted ME to create something like it just for them. I was able to express my ideas to them, demonstrate that through sketches, collaborate and make changes we agreed upon. Even experiment, fail, try again and have the creative freedom throughout the process to make something beautiful and enjoyable. I also realized that the boundaries can be pushed in my designs; for some reason I was unsure of my skill set to pull of the details but only showed myself what I am capable of, and more. 

Its nice to know there are still people out there that won't sacrifice personal expression when it comes to their jewelry, especially when it replaces the traditional mainstream wedding band.  Ibelieve this piece truly represents not only his personal style but their unique style as a couple and family. As his new and improved wedding band I'm happy to wish them a Happy Anniversary of 16 years today and I'm honored they can finally celebrate that in style. 

Black patina to highlight texture and depth (bottom view)

(side/bottom view) 

Jewelry Trunk show turns Photoshoot!

Leave it to me to turn a simple trunk show/ gown sale into a full on photoshoot. The Gown sale was one of  the second day events for the Marry Me Bridal show put on fabulously by Luxe Productions. Courtney and I with Human Beauty had a blast styling both of the fashion shows the previous days with makeup, hair styling and custom jewelry and accessories for all of the runway brides, children and men.

The second day was simply to display all of the jewelry and accessories for brides trying on gowns at the gown sale and to experiment with our veils and necklaces to complete the look. It was a great experience but of course I couldn't help myself with all the amazing dresses...I just had to try some on. Yes I am married but playing dress up never gets old!

So I grabbed a few dresses and my jewelry designs, threw up my messy hair from a long weekend and grabbed the photographer!  I discovered I very talented and sweet new friend  Tessa Anne! You can check out more of her work on her Facebook page 

Tessa Anne Photography Her work is so natural and beautiful and she made me feel so comfortable. The Bouquets are gorgeous as well so couldn't help but grab those by Amanda Karam Florals!

 

 

 You can see more photos like these on my facebook page KTemotio Designs as well as our bridal styling website Human Beauty Bridal

Trunk show this week!!

Countdown to my trunk show 5 days away!!! 

Busy bee up at 630 making jewelry! Plan was to go to 8am service but needless to say that didn't happen once I sat at my bench! I love making jewelry it is seriously my calling and I get wrapped up in every minute of it!

Trunk show is being hosted by a friend at her home with a wine tasting as well by Grapes & Barley. Ill have lots of beautiful jewelry for the holidays as well as some of my water colors and illustrations! Also offering repair, redesign and custom for someone special! 

Made my own invitations of course and excited to launch my new logo soon by Timothy weaver! 

The trunk show is a special event put on after I did a mothers custom ring for Janet from her loving daughters 

Ill post a finished photo of it after the event

Trunk show is this Thursday, lots to make and do! Stay tuned!

Have Faith. Everything else will fall into place!

Got the Mondays? Normally Id be just like everyone else getting up early and getting my self prepared for the first day of another long week at work. The weekend went by too fast and there just never seems to be enough time to really enjoy it fully. Especially Sunday, you end up spending the whole afternoon thinking about the Monday and all the things you have to do that week.

A week ago I was doing the same thing, I was working for Jared The Galleria of Jewelry as a Clerical/ Apprentice Jeweler. Id been working there since February less than two months after I graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Metal/Jewelry Design. I always thought once I graduated I would have all the time in the world to create what i wanted rather than what i was assigned to make. In fact it was the total opposite. Once you are out in the real world, with a full time job, coming home to have a creative moment isn't even in the picture.

The past month has been pretty hectic. pacing in my mind whether I should leave my job and just go for my dreams. If I should try to find another job to have a steady income before I just up and leave. I battled back and forth and looked into many other options.

Thanks for everything Jared!

My situation became even more confusing when I got a promotion at work. I had been waiting for a while for this, I was being promoted to a full time Jeweler rather than just an apprentice /clerical. This was my chance to sit on the bench and work on jewelry every day and really get some hands on experience with the fine jewelry at Jared's. Strangely enough I was ready to put my two weeks in the same morning that my boss called me with the "good news." Don't get me wrong it was good news and I was very excited and proud of myself but at the same time I knew it wasn't what I wanted in the end. Once I had the opportunity to move up in the company I knew I needed to get out and make something real happen. Something that was not defined by a constraints of a huge million dollar corporation.

Kendall's new work space - where the creativity happens

3 days after my promotion I turned down the offer and put my two weeks notice in.I feared that everyone would be upset with me and Id be escorted out that day (after hearing other horror stories). Needless to say, everyone was very happy for the opportunities that lie ahead of me and I finished my two weeks on great terms. I also know that I left behind some very talented people and I can only hope that someday they too will be able to leave and pursue their dreams as well.

Now don't get me know, It is still Monday and I didn't quit my job to just sit around at home. I have a passion and a dream to follow and someone else to work with towards our goals. Every day will be a set of new challenges, a long list of things to do to get where we want to be. The one way you will never get there is by sitting back and letting your life pass you by. Take control of your future, have faith in your talents and your determination and do what your heart tells you. Everything else will fall into place.

Alterations to fit your style!

Photos by Kyle Hoffman Photography

This necklace and earrings were transformed from a necklace that my grandmother had in collection I got after she passed. The original necklace had a large pendant in the middle of a silver fillagree flower shape with three tear drop shaped crystals hanging from it. For my wedding I wanted something a bit more simple with matching earrings. I took two of the crysals off of the necklace and made them into earrings and removed the pendant from the necklace to have just a simple chain with tiny crystals for my special day.

For my headpiece I had an idea of what I wanted and my mom and I were going to try to make something. While shopping for the materials we came across this beautiful bridal headpiece at new boutique called Accessory Appeal in Exeter NH. Lucky for me the bride who had it personally made for her never showed up to get it so it was the only one in the store!. To help it fit me even better I bent some of the feathers so they fell closer to my head instead of sticking up and out. Added a few antique pearls with the already white pearls so it pulled in the pearls on my necklace. I also added a peacock feather to the back. Although Peacocks or their colors had nothing to do with my wedding I do have a pretty good sized peacock tattoo on my back and it was sure to be shown off. Just to let everyone know that "Yes I know I have a tattoo" and "Yes I like it there!"

One of a kind bridesmaid necklaces - 6 girls 6 designs!

One of the best parts of planning a wedding is planning what everyone will wear. Not only did I get to pick out all the dresses but I had the pleasure of making all of the jewelry for my wedding party as well, along with clutches for the girls instead of flowers, and all of the boutonnieres for the men!

Each necklace is hand peirced out of copper and stamped with a lace texture. Each necklace is unique in design and pattern to the next. All 6 necklaces have a patina and fresh water pearls placed throughout the necklaces.

 

            Necklace Photo: Kyle Hoffman

For the Maid of Honors (my sisters) their necklaces were powder coating with a white paint and brushed back through to see parts of the metal.

 

 

 

engagement rings, bridesmaid jewelry, and wedding creativity!

I have been soo busy these past few months and Im so sorry to leave my blog hanging! I've been so busy this summer with family and friends but also planning my wedding!!

I wanted to create as many unique attributes for my wedding as possible, some related to jewelry of course and some a bit more of my creative side!   I'll be posting quite a few right in a row to catch everyone up on what Ive been up to!!

First off, Being a metalsmith I couldnt stand the idea of wearing a ring that was most likely mass produced. I do appreciate it the ring I got from my fiance very much and it certainly was beautiful! However, I really wanted to add my grandmothers diamond too it and a bit of my own personal touch.

(sterling silver, gold accents, diamonds and a yellow sapphire)

Photography: Kyle Hoffman Photography

Our wedding took place at Zorvino Vineyards in Sandown, NH

July 27th 2012

Not only did I re-design and re-make my own ring but I also made my Husbands ringas well!

Both rings have a lyric written on the inside...

Hers: it's always been...
His: there's no end...

 "You and me" by Soja
It's you and me, it's always been
And how I feel about you, there's no end, end
But you make me chase you around, all around
And then you need me there when you fall down, down
And when this dance is done,
You and me are still the only one
Well since our time begun
And I'm still with you even when your gone
When this dance is done,
You and me are still the only one
Well since our time begun
And I'm still with you even when your gone

Significance of the Yellow Sapphire

Happily married couples give credit to the Yellow Sapphire for its presence in their lives. The yellow sapphire is also said that if you seek to sort all marital problems, then it is the solution for you. The Power of this gem is such that the girl that you desire will be yours forever and if a girl will wear this gem then she will get married early!

Bolo tie, in progress!

In Enameling II Ken Bova assigned us to make a Bolo Tie. Being from New Hampshire I wasn't too sure what that was so I looked it up and apparently its basically a tie but looks kinda like jewelry too. So we had to design our Bolo Tie based on a specific person. I chose to do mine about and for my dad(he is an architect) and in the final result you will see a bit more about him really reflected. For now I have a simple sillhouette of a building that a drew and pierced out of copper. The plan is to have 4 layers, this being the top enameled component, then a thick layer of plexi to give it some depth then a sheet of paper cut from a blue print of his, then another back plate. Not sure exactly what I'll be doing with the finials at the bottom of the bolo cord. Guess you'll have to wait and see!

Erin Gardner's studio visit!

So I had the pleasure while in Oregon for spring break to meet up with Erin Gardner and check out her studio. Although we only had a chance to get together for less than an hour it was totally worth it. I spent part of the day  in Portland shopping a enjoying the unique city then made my way to Erin's studio. She's got a great space with Meg and it was awesome to see how such a successful Jeweler sets up her space. It is pretty overwhelming when you are about to graduate from school and be pushed off with nothing more then a few tools you may or may not have purchased along the way. Its refreshing to see someone maintain that creativity and flourish in the arrt jewelry world like Erin does. I saw a sneak peak of some of her new work and I even made it out with a pair of her red silhouette earrings! I highly recommend checking out some of Erin Gardner's recent work and projects.

Little Beauties I made for the Valentines Sale!

Metals Symposium at ECU this weekend

For the 3rd consecutive year ECU is hosting the Metals Symposium "Material Topics" this weekend. This year seems to be bigger and better with many talented artists joining ECU metals grads, undergrads, alumni and professors to share work, techniques and experience in the field. We have several awesome presenters this year along with Workshops and Exhibitions throughout the weekend.

Tonight, Art of Influence Exhibition opened and it was truely an inspiring exhibit with a really great concept. Each of the Metals Grads from ECU added a piece to the exhibit and contacted two other artists who they have been influenced by through their metalsmithing journeys and they also included some work. The tree continued with those two artists contacted two other artists to add to the show as well. Basically I added a lot of new names to my list of people to follow!

Also opening tonight was the Adroit II exhibition over in Mendenhall which was also a very good show. I even had 3 pieces in the exhibit as a series including my wax carved sea urchin rings and the sea urchin brooch  I completed the previous semester.  Hopefully I will be posting those images soon!

 Get up and go check out both of these exhibits, you won't regret it!

christmas gifts from an aspiring jeweler

its nice to be able to make all of my christmas gifts this year....and the best things come in the smallest packages :) Merry Christmas everyone!

La Noche Del Broche

La Noche del Broche Exhibition in San Antonio, TX opened last Friday at the Equinox Gallery. The show has some really good metalsmiths, many who go to ECU, a few undergrads, several grads, alumni and faculty as well. Check out all the unique broches here!

Rings with a swiveling compartment- Molly Perrin

I have been so into rings lately. I think I am going to focus on rings as much as possible next semester and over the summer.   I like this idea of revealing a surprise inside the ring. Molly Perrin