 |
 |
|
 |
 |
Q: Where did you study Jewelry/Metalsmithing and where?
A: North Bennet Street School 1996, School of the Museum of Fine Arts 2003 (sculpture)
Q: What inspires your work?
A: Everything around me. City sounds, textures in concrete, the sea, plants growing where you think it would be impossible. Everything I see as I explore my urban environment.
|
Q: Do you have a favorite piece you've made? A: My favorite piece changes often. Right now it is the beehive ring. It has everything one could want. It's so sculptural, has moving parts and diamonds. How can you go wrong. When I look at it, I also see a little crowd of people. Perhaps your own private cheering section. |
|
 |
Q: What made you want to start making jewelry?
A: I was in search of something when I discovered jewelry making. While working in 2D, I never felt quite satisfied. I felt restless with the process. I had never thought about working with metal or jewelry making before, but knew I wanted a new challenge. When I first picked up a hammer and learned to manipulate metal, I knew I had met my match.
Q: What is your favorite process? Why that one over others?
A: I am very process oriented. It often dictates what I make. I admit I love the entire process of metalsmithing. Each step serves a purpose. I rarely sit in the studio, moving from one desk to the other. It feels like I am dancing when I work. I find it both physically demanding and calming. I love when I get in a soldering groove. I like to see how many pieces I can fit in a small space. Sometimes I will solder for days. It's a very focused meditation of sorts and always so satisfying.
Q: Who is your favorite artist/who do you wear?
A: I have a collection of bracelets from all my favorite people. I love wearing them all at once. It makes me feel like I am hanging out with my friends. I also am a huge fan of costume jewelry. From plastic to sparkly styrofoam balls, it's all over the top and fabulous.
Q: What is something you would want someone to know about your work that they might not know?
A: I never sketch out my designs. I often do not know what something will be until the very end. I let my work come to life organically, allowing one thing to lead to the next.
Q: When you're not making jewelry, what are you doing?
A: A few weeks ago my boyfriend and I purchased a home in Vermont. The barn will slowly become a dream summer studio, and year round escape to go decompress. I am curious how this space and country setting will change my work. It is a fixer upper, so when I am not making jewelry I happily mowing the lawn, planting trees, and working on the house. Follow www.instagram.com/melleinthecountry for updates.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Melissa Finelli
To shop her full collection, CLICK HERE |
