FPAC: How did you learn your craft as a wire-jewelry artist?
DD: I found art later in life after having
several different careers. I was living in Southern California at the time and
took a couple of wire classes at Otis College of Art and Design to learn the
basics but beyond that I'm self-taught. I've taken a workshop in knitting
with wire and one in weaving with wire but I like to make up designs and
stitches as well.
FPAC:
How do you find the balance between being an artist and a business
woman? Any tips or tricks for artists on selling work?
DD: As most artists will tell you, the
business side is the hardest part. I've never been interested in
marketing, branding and everything else that goes into business but if you want
to succeed you have to learn how to make them work for you. I was a
member of the Artist Toolbox last year and it helped a lot. To be honest,
if I did everything I should do business-wise I'd have no time to create art.
I don't know if there is a balance where I'm concerned. I find
sometimes I have to put all my energy into the business end and other times go
full speed ahead creating pieces for shows or sales. As far as tips are
concerned... you just have to get out there, meet people and make connections,
show them you are passionate about what you do. Also, social media is important. I'm just starting to
use it.
FPAC:
Who or what inspires your work?
DD:
When I first started putting my bead "collections" together I
was quite influenced by my favorite places in California: Sequoia,
Mojave, Seamist and by shape and color: Purple Passion, Midnight Moods,
Ametrine... I love to look at beautiful and interesting metal and wire
work, but try to not be influenced by other jewelers' work. I want mine to be
fresh and original.
FPAC: What are your favorite beads and stones to work with and why?
DD:
My favorite color has always been purple, so any collection that
incorporates it is special. Ametrine is a favorite. It's a cross
between citrine and amethyst. I love bright blue lapis and of course,
sleeping beauty turquoise.
FPAC: If you could set up shop anywhere in the world, any personal or economic reservations aside, where would you go?
DD:
That's a hard question. I spent 4 years in Australia - love it
there - and I have good friends there but my favorite place is Italy. The
combination of scenery, history, the people, the food and the way I feel there
is magical.
FPAC:
Where can we find/see/purchase your work?
DD:
My jewelry is on consignment in Taos, NM and Key Largo, FL but locally MBrann in Mashpee Commons, Minerva's Owl in Roslindale Square, The Store atArsenal Center for the Arts, Bead and Fiber in the South End (where I also
teach wire classes) and of course, our FPAC store, Made in Fort Point. I
also see customers by appointment in my studio.
FPAC: Given all the new small businesses, restaurants, and buildings popping up around Fort Point, what are you MOST excited about?
DD:
I don't think there is one thing I'm most excited about.. I guess it's
more the hope that as we get more populated and popular we will attract more
"convenience" retail like a CVS or a Trader Joe's and more civic
space and it will have more of a neighborhood feel. I also hope that the
Artist District is not gobbled up by the Innovation District, but that we can co-exist.
To learn more about Dawna Davis, log onto: www.wiredgems.com
