Transcendence |
Artist: Holly Kline
Business name: Irrepressible Styles
Location: Marlton, NJ
Website: Irrepressible Styles
Child's Play |
Holly, how do you describe your work?
I'm often told that my pieces push the edge without becoming gaudy or being overdone. I design from a natural, organic perspective and really take a lot of inspiration from the elements, the earth around me, different times, Goddesses, and historical figures I admire. I like colors to catch the eye and keep it moving. I want you to feel the piece you're wearing, to keep seeing more in it as time goes on. Jewelry should be an expression of the spirit.
What is your creative process like?
I keep all my beads out in clear containers so I can see them, and I keep searching for color combinations that speak to me. Often I find the focal piece and just build around it until I've reached "the end". I keep track of fashion magazines and decorating magazines to track color and shape trends, and keep a notebook with works I find interesting and inspiring. I'm not afraid to riff off of someone else's work, beaded or not. You can't create in a bubble!
Leeloo |
What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?
I really got started because my father was interested in rock hunting, and the family went to some rock shows. My mother picked up some beading gear, and eventually I gave it a whirl. I didn't really get adddicted until seven years later, when I found my first copy of Bead and Button. After that, I was totally hooked. I've never taken a class; everything I've learned has been from books and magazines, and a lot of experimentation.
Is there a tool or material that you can't imagine living without?
Good materials and equipment are key to a really well-finished piece. I never, ever skimp on materials.
Apothecary Jars |
What inspires you to create?
I take inspiration from so many sources! I'm a pagan, so a lot comes from the earth and the Gods; a lot also comes from the English and Italian Renaissance eras, fantasy realms, sci-fi, and artists whose work I admire. William Morris, Mary Cassatt, Larry Elmore, and of course the great beaders like Sherri Serafini, Vampi Choy, Laura McCabe, and Carol Wilcox-Wells.
What inspires you to keep going when the work gets frustrating or tough?
I have been known to yell at the beads or throw them across the room! Then I take a break and indulge in something else. Reading, as I'm a huge bibliophile. Crochet. Gardening. Inevitably I come back and the piece either makes sense, or I can drop it and start on one of the other ideas I have bubbling.
Hathor |
What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?
Practice. Practice. Then, for fun, practice. Study and learn from others.
What takes up the majority of your time besides your art?
In my other job, I'm a mental health therapist for abused and neglected children. I work with families to help them learn skills that improve their functioning. My family takes up a lot of time as well; I have two gorgeous kids and a wonderful husband. My daughter is already asking to help me make more jewelry!
What's your favorite comfort food?
Chocolate and a good book. What more do you need?
Technorati Tags:handmade beaded jewelry,wearable art,beads,jewelry,necklace,mixed media,beading
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