ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Rachel Leathers
The Artisan Group is proud to announce this week's Artist Spotlight Feature is Rachel Leathers of Hearts of Stone Jewelry!
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We caught up with Rachel and asked her a few questions about her gorgeous line of stone jewelry, and her experiences so far working with TAG. Here's what she said:
- Tell us a little bit about your shoppe. My shop is Hearts of Stone Jewelry, which features heart-carved gemstone earrings, necklaces, sets and chokers. I grew up as a rockhound, so when I started tinkering with making jewelry, gemstones was a natural medium. I started playing with several shapes, but the heart carved ones were more aesthetically appealing to me, so I went with those exclusively. I made a joke about selling hearts of stone, so the name stuck! Initially this was just a hobby and I made only earrings, but I have since taken the venture more seriously and now have a more defined line of jewelry. I’m a self-taught designer, and while I am considered an assemblage artist, this is the most creatively satisfying thing I’ve ever done and am enjoying myself immensely!
- What is your favorite product from your shoppe and why? My favorite product? Oh boy, that’s hard to pin down! I have a few, actually. I took one necklace and made it my ‘signature’ piece that has become my branded visual avatar and no longer have it for sale. I wear it at shows and other events. But, one that I still have in the shop that I really do love is ‘The Lucky Buddha’ set. I love it for the layered chandelier look, the Asian accents and the focal heart is stunning! Simple elements that create a piece with impact!
- When you're not hand-carving jewelry from stone, what are your hobbies? I’ve been a professional seamstress for over 22 years, and the jewelry is a wonderful distraction. Recently I’ve designed a line of men’s shirts which I’m launching soon, and making something for me has rejuvenated the want to sew again. I haven’t had much time for other hobbies of late, but I grew-up in a boating family and I love being near the water. The infrequent chances to go out are so special and cherished! Nothing is more relaxing and replenishing than being on the water.
- What do you like best about The Artisan Group? What I enjoy the most about The Artisan Group was the most unexpected; the chance to meet like-minded people and learn from them. Everyone has an experience to share, advice to give, a shoulder to lean on and an ear to bend. It’s very uplifting to get feedback from other artisans. I knew the group was about celebrity gifting, but the gift to me has been the camaraderie, the new friendships and amazing networking. I enjoy the open forum to exchange information and ideas! The exposure my business receives by being a member has been invaluable, absolutely. You know what I really love, too? As this group grows, Valerie gives members a chance to get more involved, and I have enjoyed being a gifting coordinator and helping assemble the table at events. I love being able to see in person other member’s wares; there are amazing artists in this group who create such fabulous things, so I feel I can attest to the talent without being disingenuous. And to be in their company? Priceless!
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15 comments:
Great interview! Congratulations Rachel!
I love reading these features, I had no idea you are also a seamstress! Thanks for the insights and best of luck with your new menswear line!
Joyflower
Joysilk.blogspot.com
Congratulations to a most talented and truly wonderful lady!
Wonderful interview! I love the Asian-inspired piece, too! Best of luck in everything you do!
It is wonderful to learn more about you Rachel. What a talented lady you are! I can't wait to see your men's shirts.
great interview.. nice to learn more about you, too! I like the term "assemblage artist".. creative.. beautiful work, too, Rachel :)
Love your work Rachel! I had no idea you carve the stones yourself. Very cool!
Absolutely wonderful interview!
Such an inspiring artisan and down-to-earth person. Rachel, it's been a pleasure getting to know you these past few months!
It was wonderful learning more about the person behind the incredible jewelry! Such a wonderful feature on the TAG blog. <3
Congratulations Rachel what a wonderful interview.
Great interview! Love your work, Rachel!
what a great article rachel, good to get to know you better
What a great interview! Didn't know you were a seamstress either. Hope you can carve out some time to enjoy the water this summer, but I bet you'll be busier than ever!
Thank you Rachel for sharing how your shop came to be and some of your future plans. Your designs and color palettes are fabulous. You're such a positive inspiration and encouragement to other members of TAG!
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