Have you seen Janet’s work before? If not, it’s high time that you get to know this extraordinary artist. And to think that his master craftswoman used to sell auto parts! What I love about Janet’s collection is that each piece has an intriguing blend of freeform styling and a strong sense of purpose. Not sure if that makes sense, but her work always feels at once organic and yet controlled. Take for instance her newest creations, The Initial necklaces. So, so pretty!
Janet designs her pieces for those who like to stand out in a subtle way. Her pieces make a definitive statement and should be a part of your handmade collection.
Janet very kindly answered a few questions about her creative process.
1. What inspired you to began your collection?
Taking a silversmithing class on a whim, during a Thanksgiving trip to Enterprise, Oregon, many moons ago, A three night class convinced me to come back the following January for a two week intensive, in basic silver production and tool making techniques. After returning home, I set up a studio and began creating one of a kind jewelry pieces, which highlight my now signature, handcrafted style (yes, sometimes our seams show).
2. Can you name a favorite source of inspiration?
Weekly hikes in the woods, they provide me with a relaxing time for adventure and discovery of colors, shapes and textures, that are abundant in the great outdoors.
3. What materials do you love to use?
I love everything about sterling silver (which is the material that I primarily work in), the color, the weight, and the natural patina it develops with age. I also love stones with subtle imperfections and inclusions, and challenge myself to present them as perfectly ocurring imperfections. Oh, and did I mention how well rose gold compliments, silver? I kind of have a crush on the marriage of the two.
4. Do you have a dream collaborator?
How cool would it be to sit in a studio with Auguste Rodin learning how he realistically, transformed and captured the beauty of simple stone?
5. When you need a musical muse, who do you turn the volume up for?
Roy Orbison’s – Mystery Girl Album (ok, the thought has got me singing.)
6. How do you use social media/blogging to promote your work?
While I maintain an active presence in social media (FB, Pinterest), my main customer base doesn’t really hang there, and likes to see me, at trunk shows. There is still no substiute, in my book, for one on one contact.
For blogging, I Tumblr – it’s like being on this huge playground with all kinds of people and all kinds of ideas. I love posting as the mood strikes me; inspirations, new pieces, stories and projects that interest me. People from all over the world contribute – it is one cool “community” to play in. Come on over and play.
7. Where do you see your shop/project going?
A handcrafted piece, no matter what the medium, contains something special, a piece of the creator that is passed on to others, something only attainable in handwork. As long as our customers continue to appreciate those qualities, we will provide them with our own unique vision of adornment.
Notice her answer to question #6. Are you a jewelry designer? Perhaps Janet preferred method of presentation could work for you.
Connect with Janet Setter Jewelry: SHOP | TUMBLR | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST