What’s your business name and what do you do?
Goldie Jewelry. I am a self-taught artist & metalsmith by trade but also love dabbling in other mediums
How did you learn your craft?
I traveled to Spain 12 years ago and was inspired by the natural , organic elements of the lifestyle, clothing and jewelry. I came home ( California ) at the time, and took my first metalsmithing class.
I bought some tools , and eagerly taught myself new techniques along the way . I have continued enrolling myself in courses to learn new techniques , but the best way to learn is through trial, mistake and error!
I look forward to attending an intensive stone setting workshop later this month at Haystack. I feel like it is going to do so much for my creativity and skillset on a whole new level.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
Working with my hands! Manipulating metal and having something tactile is so therapeutic. The end goal is in sight , but the process of working with metal and ALL the tools that come along with it is so fun! And yes, there are thousands of jewelry making tools, it’s insane !
What do you enjoy least?
It’s a double edged sword , but feeling overwhelmed in the busy seasons ( summer and holidays). I love the slow nature of making jewelry, but sometimes when it’s during my busy seasons , it’s more about putting your head down and getting it done. Also, I am a one woman show , so being in my studio full time can be isolating . My dog Eddie is my best friend , and companion so he accompanies me to my studio often, and that makes me smile.
What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?
That jewelry making is often a step by step and messy process. For example, my hand carved rings take multiple steps to complete, and with that time and energy. From carving to casting , to finishing. The steps make a lot of mess in the process. You will see a shiny piece of jewelry in a case or at a makers market , but many don’t appreciate the steps it takes to get there .
What’s one artist you look up to?
I love Emilie Shapiro’s work. She is out of NYC, and she’s the artist I learned the lost wax carving process from. She started a “learn to carve a ring” at home series during the pandemic, and I couldn’t get enough of them.
It’s the technique of jewelry making I have really come to love and strive to better in my skill set . Her work is organic, raw & real and I respect her for sharing her knowledge with the world!
What do you do when you’re not making jewelry?
Well, Goldie “Jewelry & Goods” is called so because the “Goods” part represents my love for Vintage and Secondhand . I started a second hand shop during the pandemic with foraged and found treasures . I love the thrill of finding something unique that no one else has, and can tell a story beyond our knowledge.
I also love cooking colorful & nourishing meals. I have a background in Yoga & Ayurveda , so I’m a health nut and love learning about nutrition and spirituality.
I also love the simple pleasures like adventures with my dog & partner Julian. We love hiking , exploring new restaurants and going to the beach. Simple is Splendid.
Night owl or early bird?
Nothing like the peace and quiet of early mornings with a cup of coffee and a good book!
What's your favorite place in Maine?
That’s tough! There are so many amazing places in Portland . I love walks at the Evergreen Cemetery, eating everything at LB Kitchen, beach days at Pine Point & taking my dog to the Eastern Prom.