Little Ol’ Me in the Big Picture

by Staci Smith Of Staci Louise Originals

Hi there!  I am Staci ~ of Staci Louise Originals, and I am the newest member of the Love My Art Jewelry team.  I am so honored to be part of such a talented group of gals.  I have always adored and hoarded admired handmade jewelry, and now I get to be a part of this team, who promote Art Jewelry~ so I couldn’t be happier!

Here’s a little about me, in case you were wondering.  I am a stay at home mom of three children, whom I adore.   (aren't they cute?)

  I am a self taught jewelry artist, and make jewelry using PMC, Bronz Clay, sheet metal, gemstones, sea glass, and art beads, to name a few…I guess you can say my work is pretty eclectic.  I am constantly growing and changing as an artist, and never seem to be content, which forces me to always be learning something new. 
 I hope to bring those new findings to you here on LMAJ.  Whether it’s a new technique, or a personal revelation, I hope that in some way, my writings can make your art jewelry journey a little easier and more exciting.

Another reason I am so happy to be a part of this group is, that I think we are at a crucial point in our society, a place, where we really need to take a look at how we are living.  We need to think about where our food comes from, and how that effects our environment.  We need to look at our energy sources, our waste, and who we buy from, and why.  The exciting thing is, I really think people are doing just that.  I see more and more people making decisions that are beneficial, not only to them, but their environment and world as a whole.

artwork by julia smith 6

I know that buying handmade is just one small part of that, but lots of "small" actions are what it takes to make BIG difference!  Not only is it rewarding as an artist to look at your creation, and know that it’s handmade with love, but it’s rewarding as a consumer to know that the artist got paid fairly for that product, and that each part was made with care.  You can know that you just supported a hardworking artist, who is doing their best to bring you a quality and one of a kind product.  I have found nothing but friends in my journey to buy and create handmade.  I hope you will find the same.

So, now you know a little about me.  My turn to learn a little about you.  What I want to know is, why are you drawn to handmade jewelry?  Is it the economy- and your desire to support small business?  Is it because you can get to know the artist personally (I love that one)?  Is it the quality or originality… all of the above or something all together different?

 I’d love to hear your thoughts on why you are drawn to create and / or buy handmade.