Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Parisa from Parisa KJ

I hail from Iran, a nation rich in traditional crafts and artistic heritage. Growing up immersed in the rich tapestry of Iranian arts and crafts has profoundly influenced my creative journey. It has sparked a deep-seated desire within me to not only embrace these traditions but to make them an integral part of my life and work.

How did you get your start?

I initially pursued my craft as a hobby, but for the past year, it has become my full-time profession.

Congratulations! Who is your biggest artistic influence?

One of my biggest artistic inspirations was a cousin of mine back in Iran. Her handcrafted leather bag shows, where she sold her creations, sparked my passion for becoming a handbag designer. 

Very cool. How do you define success as an artist?

I believe an artist is someone who creates art purely for the sake of art, without being preoccupied by other considerations. Their artwork captivates viewers, encouraging them to ponder it for an extended period of time.

What is a typical day in the studio like for you?

Typically, I review emails in the morning, attend any online seminars or meetings, fulfill orders throughout the day, and dedicate my afternoons to working on my designs and projects.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Crafting a bag from thick leather, especially when multiple layers require sewing together…

How has your career and art developed?

My journey in both my career and art has been a gradual evolution. Initially, I pursued art as a hobby, but over the years, my passion for handbag design deepened. Taking a significant step, I registered my business and actively participated in workshops tailored for small businesses. Concurrently, I was a student studying Fashion Merchandising, which greatly contributed to shaping my career and business ventures.

Has your style changed over time?

I wouldn't claim that my style has undergone significant change, but I have noticed a growing preference for brighter colors compared to the past.

Very fun. Do your creations help you in other areas of your life?

Absolutely, my involvement in art has significantly influenced various aspects of my life. It has transformed the way I perceive both things and people, fostering a deep appreciation for the intricacies of handcraft. Additionally, participating in art-related events has been instrumental in expanding my social circle, leading to the formation of meaningful connections with individuals who share similar interests.

Do you have a favorite item that you’ve created, and why?

My favorite bag has to be the Moon Purse, one of my earliest designs. Its compact, lightweight, and distinctive design makes it the perfect everyday companion for when you're out and about. It provides just enough space for your essential items when you're running errands.

What do you love most about Pasadena?

I adore Pasadena for its vibrant atmosphere and the diverse array of art and cultural events that unfold throughout the year. What truly stands out is the city's rich mosaic, not just in culture and art, but also in the field of science. Living in proximity to institutions like Cal Tech and the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a source of great satisfaction. However, my absolute favorite is the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair. Here, I have the wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow art enthusiasts and engage with clients in person, listening to their insights and ideas about my work.

We love hearing that and having you with us! Is there anything special that you’d like to share?

I have recently introduced my online store, offering fans a convenient shopping destination for their favorite items at www.parisakj.com.

Catch Parisa KJ at Jackalope Pasadena on April 27th & 28th, 2024.

Website: www.parisakj.com

Instagram: @handbagsbyparisakj

Vivian Au

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

  I was born and raised in Kansas City and I am first generation American born of immigrant parents. As teenagers, my parents immigrated to the United States from Hong Kong. Growing up as the only Chinese kid in school, my parents made sure that my brothers and I were exposed to our Chinese culture as much as possible. Every few years we would travel to Hong Kong to visit family, which is how we were mostly exposed to our culture. Hong Kong is known for its extensive chains of jewelry stores shinning with 24 karat gold jewelry of all kinds. On those trips, I remember so clearly everyday going to the main streets of Kowloon going into jewelry stores one after an other. Intricate 24k gold chains, pendants, earrings, bangles, and traditional Chinese wedding jewelry was what fascinated me the most.

These memories were my early love for jewelry.

Melody Lil’ Girls fancy bracelet and matching Mommy bracelet

How did you get your start with your own business?

Seventeen years ago I was creating jewelry for a local jewelry designer. I learned a lot in how to run a business while having the creative freedom in creating her jewelry line. At twenty five years old, I decided to take the leap of faith to become an independent jewelry designer and manufacturer. Thirteen years in creating your Forever Love Story, that is how Vi Ling Designs was created. 

What is your biggest artistic influence?

My ethnic culture is my biggest artistic influence. Growing up as the only Chinese girl in grade school really made me appreciate my ethnicity. I love to create pieces with influences of Chinese cultural art combining my love of fashion and minimalism. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Success as an artist in my perspective is looking back of all the years prior to and seeing the growth of my business and myself. All the tough times and struggles has built me to who I am today. I didn’t pack up and give up during the hard times. Instead I kept learning different aspects of the jewelry industry to build self growth. 

NEW Lil’ girls fancy bracelets for Spring

What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

There are not enough hours in a day! I break my daily tasks by the hour to accomplish roles such as: email marketing, content strategy, website maintenance, photography, CAD designing and much more. Addition to Vi Ling, I am also a consultant for a jewelry insurance company. With that, it requires a lot of economic research of diamonds, color gemstones, gold and all sectors of the jewelry market. 

NEW! Popular Vi Ling Front to Back style earrings featuring cultured pearls and rough diamonds set in oxidized silver. 

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

At times, the creation process can take longer than expected when a client wants a custom piece giving me the 100% creative freedom. For new clients, it can be challenging to design a piece to their liking or matching their life style. Sometimes clients wants something generic, but I want to put a creative twist to it. Finding that balance can be time consuming and prolongs the process from start to finish of their custom jewelry piece. 

How has your style changed over time?

As I’ve gotten older, my style has changed. I’m not scared of incorporating gemstones into my demi-fine jewelry collection which has also evolved my design style. Crafting jewelry with quality metals, accents of natural gemstones, mean while keeping price conscious is my main objective. Earrings has become my best sellers so I have concentrate in adding to the collection. 

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

My favorite item is the “Front to Back earrings” These earrings can be worn from day to evening and it incorporates all the elements that I follow by in my collections. Modern - Fashion Forward - Classic

Anything new in the works?

Last year I added an in house CAD service for my clients custom creations. This coming month, the addition to one-on-one CAD design services, I will also be providing 3D jewelry mock ups for my clients. This add on service provides extra love and attention to creating their Forever Love Story. 

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

I love Hello Kitty, Pomeranians, llamas, character art of asian culture, harajuku street fashion and anything pink and cute. That is where you will see a bit of my sweet and dainty side in my designs especially for the Lil’ Girls jewelry collection. 

Catch Vi Ling Designs at Jackalope Pasadena on April 27th & 28th, 2024.

Website: www.vilingdesigns.com

Instagram: @vilingdesigns

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Nathan Eigenfeld of EigenVisison

I currently live in Colorado, but am a avid road warrior. It’s a part of my process, I am on the road 5 months out of the year. Living in the mountains helps me connect with nature and feeds my process. One of my favorite artists is Mark Rothko, known for his outstanding color block images. I’ve tried to channel his style into my photography. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Success for me is making people feel- anything, it doesn’t matter - awe, inspiration, emptiness, loneliness, despair, hope, love - whatever. Color seems to simplify feelings.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

The hardest part for my creation process is the alone time. Many of these images have been created on multi-day backcountry wilderness treks while alone. That’s where I can let myself create the best and let my intuition guide me. Despite it giving me a sense of freedom, overcoming physical challenges alone in the wilderness can be daunting, and yet, it is ultimately rewarding as well.

How has your style changed over time?

My style is always evolving, but I have certainly settled into a minimalist style, emphasizing empty space. It has been fulfilling to have people identify with this.

What’s your favorite image that you’ve created, and why?

One of my favorite images I’ve created is my silhouetted image of Joshua Trees. It was at a time when I was unsure of my process and was struggling to “Be Myself” - which I’ve named the image. I shot it during a brilliant pink sunrise just off the road in Joshua Tree National Park in December of 2021. I absolutely love how the silhouette emphasizes the quirkiness of the trees, all different and disjointed in their own ways - they have no issues being themselves.

And finally, what do you love most about Pasadena?

Having attended Pasadena fair last spring, I fell in love with the energy of the downtown - a destination for such a diversity of people. Californians love their art and are not afraid to buy things on the street! Selling photos of pure wilderness in a city setting is rewarding and can even feel like a sort of ministry to me, reminding people of what’s ‘out there’ beyond the concrete and hustle and bustle. I am looking forward to this Fall’s market!

Catch EigenVision at Jackalope Pasadena on November 18th & 19th!

Website: www.nathaneigenfeld.com

Instagram: @eigenvision

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

We live in Orange County and could not be more grateful for the amazing women in business we have met through building a strong presence in the local community. These relationships have brought us events, partnerships, and sponsorships which are so vital for local businesses like ours. 

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

Both my business partner and I had unique permanent jewelry experiences on girls trips in Seattle and Nashville and fell in love with the concept. As for our artistic influences? Our customers! The custom creations they make with us never cease to amaze us and we love seeing what they come up with or what they came in wearing. We strive to make our brand unique to us and encompass who we are and how we want to impact our communities. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Success is doing work that you love. It’s choosing to get up each day and participate in a life you truly enjoy. Getting to work with our customers and get creative bring us both so much joy! We love that Parker J allows us to do that!

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

We wouldn’t say anything is particularly hard, it’s more about finding the right fit and chain for our customers. We get to be a part of their process in curating the perfect piece for them. It’s one of the best parts of our job.

How has your style changed over time?

When we first started our company in 2022, we stuck to dainty pieces, which are very typical in the Permanent Jewelry industry. However, we chose to branch out and try bolder styles, calling them “statement chains”, and they’ve been a hit so far. We’ve added many charms and connectors along the way, and have even changed up our chains every few months. Our most recent addition has been colored enamel chains that we plan to drop for each season. They’ve been a hit! It keeps our collection, new and fresh.

As for our newest service at Parker J, we just added a customizable charm bar that brings back the nostalgia of building your very own charm bracelet or necklace. Customers get to choose from hundreds of unique charms to create something that’s very meaningful to them. It has been so fun to see what people choose, and we love putting it together for them and seeing their reactions!

Custom Dip Lariat

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

We love creating custom pieces. One of our favorite pieces that we’ve created is our dip lariat. These are custom order only & we absolutely love creating them for our customers.

Is there anything special that you would like to share?

We are just grateful to share what we love to do with others and are hoping to get more people styled and stacked by us at Parker J!

What do you love about Pasadena?

Pasadena has this perfect blend of old-school charm and modern vibe that we just love. Whether it’s grabbing coffee at a cozy spot or strolling through the tree-lined streets, there’s always something new to discover.

Catch Parker J Jewelry at Jackalope Pasadena on November 9th & 10th.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/parkerj.pj

Instagram: @parkerj.pj

Shannon

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

I'm originally from rural Iowa. Although I've been an Angeleno for decades now, I think my upbringing has influenced my affinity for natural elements and fascination with animals.

What are your biggest artistic influences?I'm most inspired by natural history and old handmade objects. I'm a tactile person and would much rather spend a day touching everything at a flea market than taking in fine art at a museum. I love studying well-crafted taxidermy. I think my favorite piece of art hanging in my house is an x-ray of a viper moray eel – its skeleton is just mesmerizing.

How do you define success as an artist?

For me personally, success is being able to work for myself, doing what I love full-time. It's knowing that whatever I've put out into the world has made a connection with enough people that I can provide for myself with those skills. I'm doing the thing I would do if I didn't have to work.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Creating is the easy part. I use a lot of organic elements, like feathers for example; their natural beauty does the heavy lifting in my opinion. All I have to do is present them in a way that can be worn and appreciated by others. The trick is sourcing materials that are not easy to come by. Perhaps the biggest challenge is carving out time away from the administrative aspects of running a small business to get back to the basics and work with my hands.

How has your style changed over time?

My instincts lean toward dramatic statement pieces, but over time I've come to appreciate the elegance of more subtle designs and colors. Sometimes stripping something down to a simpler version of itself is what makes it more accessible and wearable for my customers. But if I had all the time and resources in the world, I'd probably be making elaborate one-of-a-kind body jewelry pieces and modifying chandeliers, haha.

Snake Vertebrae Wrap Bracelet by Astali

Extra Long Feather Earrings by Astali

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

One of the first pieces in my line (going back 16 years now), is still one of my favorites – the snake vertebrae wrap bracelet. It's always been a conversation piece because most people don't get to see those intricacies of nature up close, much less wear them.

My other favorites are the extra long feather earrings. Those are my go-to accessory when I'm going out for an evening. They're unbelievably soft and silky, and make my otherwise all-black wardrobe a little more interesting.

What do you love most about Pasadena?

I love Pasadena's iconic architecture. There's such a rich history of design to explore in every neighborhood, and I'm a big fan of the American Craftsman architectural movement.

Another great thing about Pasadena is the proximity to hiking and nature – just a quick drive up the road, and you're in the foothills.

It’s a special place. Is there anything special that you would like to share?

Jackalope Pasadena has a special place in my heart because I've been exhibiting regularly since the very first one. I'm not even sure what year that was! I don't do many in-person events anymore, so it's really nice to get to talk with the fair's patrons about my work and get their feedback on new pieces. I always learn something valuable to take back to the studio.

That means so much to us! Catch Astali at Jackalope Pasadena on November 18th & 19th!

Website: ww.astali.com

Instagram: @astalijewelry

Dante Perozzi

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I have moved around a ton in my life, so it's not easy to sum up. I was born in Zimbabwe, lived in places like Virginia, Louisiana, South Carolina, sailed on a boat along the US east coast and into the Caribbean, and finally settled in Arizona. The longest I stayed anywhere was 12 years in California, but I was just 21 when I got there. I think all that moving around made me more open to taking risks, trying new things, and not being afraid of big changes or new ideas.

Very cool! Do you have any artistic influences?

Yes! Other than finding beauty in formal attributes and shapes - I am always moved and inspired by sculpture. Some favorites that I can think of right now are Louise Nevelson, Gordon Matta Clark, Robert Motherwell, Carl Andre, Eva Hesse.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success as an artist is creating something that can affect the thoughts or emotions of others through my creations. They have an impact and can be absorbed/appreciated by an audience. In the case of jewelry, I feel successful when I see someone light up when they find or wear my my jewelry. 

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Knowing when to stop! I have endless ideas and I could make new designs indefinitely. But I have learned to hold myself back otherwise I become buried by the production of too many pieces at a time. Patience doesn’t come easily to me.  

Has your style changed over time?

I went from working with very clean lines, straight edges, smooth surfaces with sharp angled designs that were highly structural in nature to the complete opposite end of the spectrum! I am currently making pieces that are highly textural, and more organic in form. It’s funny to think about how very different my work is now.

Ya we can spot the difference from when you first started doing our fairs! How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I have steadily added skills to my knowledge base from the beginning. I thrive off of a design challenge-and since I don't let my personal skillset limit my ideas, I am often seeking out knowledge via courses or local resources in order to bring my idea to life.

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I could never pick a favorite. But I’ll say that I am really enjoying making chains lately. I have a beautiful new piece called the Nara Chain and I find it mesmerizing.  I can definitely see more unique chain making in my future.

Can’t wait to see what you will create next! And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

I have been in Colorado for 5.5 years now and the beauty of this state is truly incomparable, I have also really grown to love the active and engaged community of people I have found here. I have 2 young boys that I am very grateful to be able to raise in this special place.

Can’t wait to be back there next week! Catch Dante Perozzi at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.danteperozzi.com

Instagram: @danteperozzijewelery

Bobo from Made Design Jewelry

What about your background inspired your work?

I come from a family of designers. My mom is 80 years old & is a master seamstress. My dad, bless his heart, passed away around 18 years ago. He was a furniture designer, drawing artist and jewelry maker.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

My influences are my team of designers that work for Made Design Jewelry & my Mom, along with traveling the world.

How do you define success as an artist?

I define success as making our own designs & not following trends. Also, we are now being sold in 15 department stores in Japan. Japan is the most difficult market to sell to, so that speaks to our creativity and quality.

What is the hardest part of your process?

Keeping up with the orders. We have thousands of designs we create & it is very difficult to keep up with all the requests & orders from our retail/wholesale accounts.

How has your style changed over time?

Designs have changed where we are more free, using more up-cycled materials & creating jewelry sewn onto clothing/accessories like hats.

Triple Drop Australian Opal on GoldFilled Threader Earrings

What’s your favorite item that you’ve created?

Our triple drop Australian Opal on GoldFilled threaders.

Can’t wait to see those in person! What do you love most about Pasadena?

We love the people, and the park in Pasadena is peaceful.

We love that Central Park is our home in Pasadena! And finally, is there anything special that you would like to share?

We are having a special at Jackalope - we sell wholesale to the public for the two days. Outside of the market, wholesale is only sold to retail stores. We have solid 14k Gold starting at $24 and we have a large section offering one item at $25 & 4 items for $45. That includes some GoldFilled items &  9.25 Silver. 

Catch Made Design Jewelry on November 18 & 19th at Jackalope Pasadena!

Web: www.madedesignjewelry.com

Instagram: @madedesignjewelry

Daili Shang

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?

I am from China. I majored in Physics. Being an Asian descendent who was forced into a career which didn't bring joy to me makes me understand those who want to be true to themself. I promote pursuing one's dream and self-care in my work. 

We love that mission. How did you get your start? 

I majored in physics in college because that’s one of the “society approved” majors in Asian culture. I’ve always loved art and the great outdoors. I wanted to be true to myself and started exploring art and a more flexible lifestyle after I graduated.

What are your biggest artistic influences?

My biggest artistic influences are the problems we face every day. I try to use a humorous tone to address the problems and use my art to let people know that this is okay. We will get through this. In the meantime, take a deep breath and take care of yourself.

Love that. How do you define success as an artist?

A successful artist is progressing compared to herself/himself/themselves. A successful artist has the freedom to create what makes herself/himself/themselves happy.

What is the hardest part of your creation process? 

To slow down and recharge to create better work.

It can be hard to step a way at times. What is a typical day like in the studio for you? 

I reply to emails in the morning. I spend most of my day learning and practicing as I’m a self-taught artist and I’m only in the second year of making art. There is a ton to learn. 

How has your style changed over time?

I intentionally make my style simpler and more stylized over time.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

My favorite piece is the national park sign which says "some who wander are lost and that is okay too". I love that I altered Tolkien's saying and made it my own version. Many people get courage and spend time to explore more from this new version. This piece is also clever in the sense that a national park sign is supposed to tell you where you are, but this sign tells you that you are lost and that is okay.

As someone who’s attended fairs in multiple Jackalope cities, what do you love most about Pasadena?

I love the mountains in Pasadena. The authentic Chinese food in San Gabrielle village comes to a close second.

And how about (Arvada) Colorado?! I love nature. I love bicycle riding in Colorado.

Now we can’t wait for you to be a part of our Burbank event and see all that this great city has to offer as well.

And finally, is there anything special you would like to add?

I started my art journey in my 30s two years ago. I am a full-time artist now. I want to let those who want to pursue their dream but in doubt know that you just have to start. The rest will take care of itself. 

My work can also be found at Ten Women Gallery at 2719 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405. 

Catch Shang Daili at the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival on December 7th & 8th, 2024.

Website: www.shangdaili.com/

Instagram: @shang_daili

Tatiana of Sanin Jewelry

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I am from Medellin, Colombia, the city of the eternal spring. Being born there brings a different sunshine to my inspiration that is reflected in some of my pieces. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Doing what you love every day of your life surrounded by your loved ones.

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

The days when I don't have inspiration. I used to think that I needed to be creative everyday, but I am just a human with sunny and rainy days. There will be days full of wonderful ideas and others for resetting myself.  

Well said. Has your style changed over time?

A lot! From the materials I use, to the design process, and I think it will continue evolving and that excites me!

How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I am coming out of a time in my life when I took a couple years to work on myself and get some clarity in my life. I am ready for the next chapter of growing and learning. I am planning to attend a design school next year to discover more about this creative world.

Very cool! What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I have a lot of favorite items, it is hard to choose. I love my WILDLIFE COLLECTION because I am a big animal lover. I also adore my CONSTANTINE COLLECTION that was inspired by the architecture of the big cathedrals around the world. My father helped me to bring my ideas to life and having his hands be part of this process makes every piece very special to me.

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The nature! The silhouettes of the mountains getting lost in the sky and the magnificent wildlife that I have the honor to be surrounded by. What a lucky girl to wake up with the sound of the birds and go to bed with the light of the stars. 

Catch Sanin Jewelry at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.sanin.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saninjewelry

Amber with Original Remix

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?  

I am from Denver Colorado. This affects my work because I love being outdoors and am greatly inspired by nature in my designs. I really like plants and enjoy creating out of the ordinary items with them (such as live plant jewelry)! 

Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I would say one of my biggest design influences is clean cut modern designs sometimes mixed with a bit of retro. This is reflective in my branding and logo, as well as my Root Vases which have a very clean aesthetic. You can see a bit of mid-century retro twist reflective in the gold that I use as part of my jewelry, and in how I style my vendor space at markets. 

How do you define success as an artist?

I define success as an artist as being able to create truly unique items, bringing them into the world from an idea, to a sketch at times, to a finished product that brings joy and a smile to people's faces.   

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Yes. Art and design help me in other areas of my life by providing an outlet for my creativity to flow. I also use art and design to create aesthetically pleasing and welcoming spaces in my own home.     

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

I have worked on developing my skill-set by continuing to develop new products, and by utilizing various tools in the workshop I work in, such as a CNC machine, drills, etc. My background is in product design and a lot of my designs are influenced by that. I like to call it "Craft meets Design." I also do multiple prototypes of a design continually refining and improving it until I feel it's ready to be presented. I also ask for feedback on a new product I may be working on.     

Very cool! What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

I think the hardest part is the patience required to complete a product from sketch or prototype to something I'm proud of and ready to present to the world.   

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

That's a tough one. Like choosing your favorite kid, lol. I love each product for different reasons but if I had to pick one, I think it would be my line of Live Air Plant and Live Cactus Earrings. They truly puzzle people, cause people to stop and do a double-take. Then the delight on their faces when they realize the plants are real is what I love the most. When I was developing the Live Cactus Earrings, I had a lot of skeptics (understandably). I did many iterations of the pot before I decided on the one I make and use today, and I love that I proved the skeptics wrong about this being a valid product. People are confused by them, but at the same time, love them.  

We can’t wait to see those in person! Catch Original Remix at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: originalremix.com

Instagram: @original__remix/