Saturday, November 10, 2007
Craft
I'm in the middle of a 3-day beading class taught by a jewelry designer with a national reputation and clientele. She takes it all very very seriously, the process and the product one produces. She seems very Type A and a bit tightly wound, but perhaps one doesn't rise to the top without taking oneself and one's work a bit [too] seriously.
I have often said how very grateful I am to the fates or gods or whoever is in charge of such things that they led me to my jewelry/beading store instead of any of zillions of others. The owner somehow manges to balance fun, creativity and professionalism with precision and detail, all with a charming and light touch, and with respect for everyone. When customers or students ask questions about color or method, she willingly makes suggestions though she always adds that "you should do what you'd like - it's a matter of personal choice." She never objects or takes it personally if someone chooses A or B instead of C or D, or doesn't agree with her suggestions. An amazing trait for anyone in any circumstance, let alone someone teaching the skills and techniques in question, and selling relevant tools and materials. While her taste is impeccable and she always encourages good technique even if people are doing the work totally casually (as opposed to with an eye to making saleable pieces), she never imposes her taste, choice or opinion on anyone. She's marvelous. I am very grateful that she was my first beadwork and jewelry instructor and now is my advisor and friend.
I have often said how very grateful I am to the fates or gods or whoever is in charge of such things that they led me to my jewelry/beading store instead of any of zillions of others. The owner somehow manges to balance fun, creativity and professionalism with precision and detail, all with a charming and light touch, and with respect for everyone. When customers or students ask questions about color or method, she willingly makes suggestions though she always adds that "you should do what you'd like - it's a matter of personal choice." She never objects or takes it personally if someone chooses A or B instead of C or D, or doesn't agree with her suggestions. An amazing trait for anyone in any circumstance, let alone someone teaching the skills and techniques in question, and selling relevant tools and materials. While her taste is impeccable and she always encourages good technique even if people are doing the work totally casually (as opposed to with an eye to making saleable pieces), she never imposes her taste, choice or opinion on anyone. She's marvelous. I am very grateful that she was my first beadwork and jewelry instructor and now is my advisor and friend.
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