ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Wendy Emerson

by Valerie


The Artisan Group is proud to announce this week’s Artist Spotlight Feature is Wendy Emerson of Willow Creek Jewelry!


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WILLOW CREEK JEWELRY

We caught up with Wendy and asked her a few questions about her gorgeous line of handcrafted copper jewelry, and her experiences so far working with TAG. Here’s what she said:



Tell us a little bit about your shoppe. 

I opened my shop, Willow Creek Jewelry on Etsy in 2009. I love creating distinctive original pieces using sterling silver, copper, brass and gemstones. My design style doesn’t really fit into one category because I’m drawn to many different styles and I think that’s reflected in my jewelry. I enjoy adding my own spin on a style so you may find anything from a little Boho to a little Traditional to everything in between.

You can really look back through my designs and see how I’ve changed as a designer. My current passion is metalwork and metalsmithing. I absolutely love manipulating metal with fire, a hammer and my hands. It’s fascinating what you can actually make metal do. Taking a sheet of plain hard metal and forming it into a wearable design accented with complementary gemstones is so satisfying. There’s no doubt about it, I’ve found my bliss!

What is your favorite product from your shoppe and why? 

My current favorite is a hammered copper cuff accented with copper chain and tiger iron gemstones. I loved creating this piece because along the way I never knew what was coming next. I hardly ever sketch a design but I usually have an end result in my head. With this piece I just grabbed some copper one day and started with no goal in mind. Each stage was exciting and a little like an “Ah-Ha” moment. I was very pleased with how the piece turned out.

When you’re not creating such lovely artisan jewelry, what are your hobbies? 

This question was a little difficult because I’m always designing in my head, even while driving and sleeping. However, there are a few things I enjoy outside of jewelry. I enjoy spending time with my husband of thirty years, our sons and our 5 year-old granddaughter, who is an absolute joy! I also enjoy gardening, being outdoors, reading and traveling.


What do you like best about The Artisan Group? 
I was actually a member of The Artisan Group for almost a year before I started getting involved and now I could kick myself for waiting so long. Valerie has been there with a reassuring and supportive voice to answer my sometimes crazy questions, and really holding my cyber hand through everything. I was lucky enough to participate in the (GBK) 2012 Oscar Swag Bag and two celebrity gift bags. All three experiences were rewarding with Valerie right there every step of the way.

The group as a whole is amazingly supportive, with members offering valuable advice and wonderful words of encouragement. I have found TAG to be the perfect fit for an artist that wants to grow their business because in order to do so you must surround yourself with like-minded artisans that can provide you with a positive outlook, honest feedback and inspiration.


    Wendy recently participated as a display participant in a luxury celebrity gift lounge on February 24-25, 2012 at The W Hotel in Hollywood, California, in honor of the The 2012 Academy Awards Nominees and Presenters.

    Comments

    9. Rachel says

      Okay, copper and tiger iron?! I’m in love! Two of my favorites! I love your work, Wendy, just really love all the elements and the beauty of the designs. I’m a fan!

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