Etsy Monday - Nova Designs

After a brief hiatus from the series due to some family issues (and the time spent playing catch-up), I'm pleased to bring Etsy Mondays back! This week's featured seller is Tess, "the Swede" behind Nova Designs. Tess makes absolutely gorgeous metal work jewelry with a botanical feel that is perfect for Spring! I fell in love with her designs the moment I found her shop, and I'm so glad that she took the time to answer some questions for us.

Brass Growing flower earrings

I love the air of optimism that seems to occupy her whole shop. Tess' interview reveals the same positive vibe and it's a treat to read more about her craft and her outlook on life and art. Here's what she had to share:

1. When did you realize that you wanted to be an artist/artisan?

I can't recall a point in time where I realized it. I think I've always been an artist of some sort. Being raised by a single mom that is also a very talented artist really helps to kick start your creativity and imagination. Arts and crafts have always been around me.

2. How long have you been working with your medium and what first sparked your interest in it?

I started making jewelry in polymer clay back when I was just a little girl. I used to sell my necklaces at my mothers art exhibitions. I picked up my jewelry making again a few years back and I got more and more interested in metalwork. I am all self taught and It's been quite a journey to get where I am today. I've always loved jewelry and now I get to wear as much as I want!

Phoenix Wings earrings

3. What do you find most enjoyable/rewarding about your art/craft?

I love challenges and acquiring new skills that I can apply to new designs. I am constantly developing my style and thinking about new ways of doing things. The sky is the limit!

4. Where do you find inspiration for your art/craft?

Everywhere! Driving on my way to work (my day job as a graphic designer). In line at the grocery store... Walking around in nature...

5. What message or values do you wish to convey with your art? What does your art say to the world?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I like to leave that question to be answered by all of you.

(clockwise from left)
Enameled Green Happy Thoughts Necklace / Growing Silver ear wire flower earrings /
You Pick the Color of Your Little Nose Nail Stud

6. Are there any other creative outlets that you use to express yourself? What are they and what do you enjoy about them?

I used to do a lot more graphic design, but when it's been your day job for over 10 years, it gets kind of old.. Two things that keeps me sane is snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking in the summer. It allows me to be outside in nature while my mind can wonder freely.

7. Do you have any advice for other artists/artisans

Love what you do and the rest will follow. Don't create to sell. Create what you love.

Brass Flower ring / Spring Ring

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In closing...

Where else can we find you and your work, either on the internet or in person? (ie blog url, flickr, facebook, etc)

www.nova-designs.blogspot.com

Any other websites or resources you’d like to recommend (not just to other artists)?

www.ganoksin.com

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To read past interviews with "Etsy Monday" featured artists, click here!