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I make unique hand embroidered jewelry and home décor as well as beaded jewelry.
What are your favorite pieces to make?
Currently, my favorite pieces to make are from my latest collection inspired by my love of textile wall hangings.
Each of these pieces are somewhat improvised and become one of kind. When I start I know the basic color combination and shape- but as I make each one it evolves and changes as I add colors, or beads, so I never know what the end result will look like exactly - it’s very cool, and I love how individual and textural they are!
How would you describe your style?
I would definitely say my style is unique and modern with ethnic influences. My undergraduate degree was Medical and Cultural Anthropology as well as art, and I have always been interested in other cultures and how they adorn themselves. Like my own personal style, my jewelry reflects a love of modern design, respect for traditional materials, influence from other cultures, and sometimes a nod towards the quirky and kitsch. I like my jewelry to be statement pieces in and of themselves!
When did you learn to do what you do?
Growing up I was taught many different art forms and making things to wear and play with was how I was raised. My mom would organize summer “art camps” for us at home and one summer we focused on embroidery. Fast forward to years later as I had to adjust my jewelry making techniques because of time constraints (work and family) and safety issues (baby in the house so no more metal working or lampworking in our apartment!) I utilized my knowledge and love of textiles and embroidery to create pieces using minimal supplies and tools and embroidery was something I could do in the quiet moments after my little one went to sleep at night. I know I am going to get back to using metals and glass as well as other mediums in my jewelry, but I am so excited with all the incredible possibilities by using textiles and thread- I have so many ideas, that I’m not in any hurry!
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| photo courtesy of Sandra from HappyMorningblog.com |
What inspires you?
I am truly inspired by people and the human condition. It’s so fascinating to me all the aspects that go into living this one amazing life- so full of beauty, color, textures…And of course, the natural world around us that provides an infinite amount of inspiration each day.
Where would you like your shop to be 5 years from now?
I’m really excited about potential collaborations with other artists and creative people. I’d love to have seasonal pieces that appeal to everyone and for regular customers. And of course, having my creative work be a major portion of my income would be a dream!
What does your work space look like?
I think my creative workspace could be described as “organized chaos” I am a person who uses her senses a lot, so I love to have my visual field full of colorful, inspirational images. I also love to be surrounded by things I can touch and experience like rocks, ribbon, and other tactile things.
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| photos courtesy of Sandra from HappyMorningblog.com |
How do you spend your time when you're not creating?
I do have a full time job so that keeps me busy busy busy. On my free time I spend it with my daughter making things for her as well as getting out and exploring the world; traveling, swimming, going for walks, museums, music, and THE BEACH; which is my favorite place in the world.
What is your favorite thing to have for breakfast?
For breakfast I love to eat a salami sandwich with butter and brewers yeast. Weird, I know.
Where else can we find your work; Are you doing any events this holiday season?
Right now I sell primarily via my shop - AnAstridEndeavor - on Etsy:
I have sold on flash sale sites like Uncovet, OkayAfrica, and CurioRode as well as a few sites overseas. Locally I will be selling at Wonderland SF and also have a selection of my jewelry at Angela Adams in Portland Main. AND I hope this holiday season to be a part of the Renegade Craft Fair in San Francisco!!!
(I don't know about you guys but I'm exhausted just reading that)
The big news right now is that I am participating in the Martha Stewart American Made contest for American designers, artists, and craftspeople. I’m so excited to be a part of this and would love your support- you can find my profile here: http://www.marthastewart.com/
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| photo courtesy of Sandra from HappyMorningblog.com |
There you have it. Now head over to Martha Stewart's American Made contest and vote, vote vote, Then head to Astrid's store and shop shop shop! Remember:
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| OK not really, but I couldn't help it! |
