Today's Vendor Spotlight is jewelry company Duck Harbor Design, specializing in beaded and found object/antique incorporated designs. Named after Duck Harbor Beach in Wallfleet, MA, where Liz Brown initially conceived the idea of creating a jewelry company after casual discussion on the beach with her brother-in-law. I recently interviewed Liz to learn a little bit about her creative process, and experiences with the Alternative Fair.
1. What attracted you to the Alternative Fair?
Years ago, I heard about the Alternative Fair from a friend who had been attending for the few years prior. It sounded like something that was right up my alley! I typically do only the larger, outdoor summer shows, but had been looking for something in the wintertime that was more interesting than the "typical holiday craft fair". My work incorporates a lot of antique or found objects, and tends to have an earthy feel. The crowd this fantastic show draws seems to be a perfect fit for me!
2. What is the planning process for your jewelry?
The planning process for my jewelry truly varies with my mood. Sometimes there is absolutely no plan. Sometimes inspiration just strikes, and I can sit down and turn out a piece I love within an hour. The creative juices just flow! Other times, I have an idea in my head- but struggle to bring it to life with my materials. If I reach frustration, I typically walk away for a few hours (or a few days) and come back to it with a clearer head.
I tend to find inspiration in the world around me, or objects I find that I begin to look at differently than some people might. I usually start with a focal piece, or something that the rest of the piece will be built around. Anything from antique keys to guitar picks to old subway tokens. I'm also very color-driven. I try to use a variety of colors in my work, but often gravitate towards my favorites- turquoises, greens, browns- primarily earth tones, mixed with pops of random color, metals, and my other interesting finds.
3. On average, how long does it take to make a piece?
On average, I'd have to say there is no average time it takes me to create a piece! Earrings are usually pretty quick- unless as I'm putting them together I realize they aren't turning out quite like I'd imagined. Then it's back to the drawing board! My leather bracelets are also fairly quick and fun to create, assuming I don't get inadvertently epoxied to my work. Beaded bracelets and necklaces are the most time consuming, and depending on my mood- they can take anywhere from an hour to a few days! Since my "real job" is teaching 2nd graders, I don't have as much time to devote to my jewelry business as I'd like. Perhaps someday... :)
You can visit Duck Harbor Design at http://www.duckharbordesign.com/index.html
RSVP to our Alternative Fair on our Facebook event page, we'd love to see you! https://www.facebook.com/events/1521840118059601/
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