Sometimes It's Difficult to Get Motivated!

I seem to have stopped writing in my blog. My last post was Mother's Day. I'm not sure if there is a connection between the last post being about my mother, and my not writing. I don't think so but I'm not sure.

What I do know is that it is a struggle to keep myself "up" given the challenges I face making a living as a jewelry maker. Things that used to roll off my back are effecting me more these days.

An example of this is that I was not accepted into a big craft show this year that I got into last year. I know how competitive it is for jewelers at craft shows and therefore shouldn't be surprised, but for some reason, this year it hit me harder than usual. Makes me think of the things I need to do to increase my chances of acceptance.

For example, I think I need better photographs to send to shows. My photos look pretty good on the web, but printed they are not as professional looking. I also think I need to add an artist statement to my applications, acknowledging that there is a ton of competition for jewelry makers, and what it is about my jewelry that stands out and makes me a good candidate for their show. As a "beader" it is easy to discount the quality of the work I do although when people get a chance to see it up close, it is clear that the pieces are not run of the mill, given my use of color and design.

So.....I've been in a funk and am hoping that I am moving out of it. I have a show in Connecticut this Sunday at an Art Fair, and I hope that will help. I love talking to people about my work.

Here are a few of my new pieces. I seem to be using pendants more and more, and these are particular ones that I've been hoarding. When I find components that I love, I hang on to them for a while, not wanting them to go.....then after a while I can use them and put them up for sale. I suspect other jewelry artists understand that dynamic!