We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rahya Blackwell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rahya below.

Rahya, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Great question! I would say the biggest risk I ever took in my creative business was in the thick of COVID days–much of my business before covid was based on wholesale structure. With buyers being more conservative in their purchasing and many stores not making it through, I knew I had to change and evolve with the fast changing world at the time. I had always had a vision to direct more of my sales straight to my website–I loved the idea of really getting to know my customer and selling jewelry directly to the person wearing and enjoying my work. An opportunity fell into my lap to work with a leisure and social organization here in New Orleans. It was a project that I would assume all costs on and also risk with dwindling working capitol. The collection was launched with the organization and was a total hit. Not only did I fulfill my dream to work directly with my customer, but it has been a beautiful partnership the past 4 years. The collection simply put is a line of chains and pendants where the customer can fully customize their unique necklace. Each woman I work with has their own story that they share through their jewelry. Part of my story is now with these wonderful women who helped my business through a time I was not sure I would make it through.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Originally born and raised in New Orleans, I attend an arts conservatory for high school students called New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), There I was immersed in an environment bursting with like-minded artists, in a city that is bursting with creativity. After graduating high school there, I attended SCAD where I received my BFA in Metals and Jewelry. Shortly after returning to New Orleans, I launched my jewelry line in 2011. Currently I operate and create my jewelry line from my home studio in New Orleans.

As someone who loves fashion and dressing up, I tend to design first for myself. My inspiration comes from nature and organic form, but translates in a way that complements the wearer. I think being from New Orleans definitely gives me a creative edge. Here we are so community driven. The entire social network is an art form in itself–we’re constantly learning from each other here and inspiring each other.

I would say because of this, I’m most proud of the connections I have built as an artist. I take pride in sharing resources and connecting other people however I can. I think this serves everyone in a profound way to grow and learn and share, not to gate keep. Ultimately I have always felt that if someone else succeeds then we all do.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I wake up almost everyday with so much gratitude that I get to do what I love for a living. I almost laugh, like “am I really doing this, and supporting myself?”. I never ever feel like Im working, which is such a gift. Which also means I am constantly working–I am completely in love with my craft. It’s incredibly rewarding seeing people wear my work, and enjoying it on a daily basis. I feel like I am apart of their story and help to express themselves in their fashion choices.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Its crazy how much time and energy we spend on social media these days. I guess I look at it as an installation piece that kind of showcases the visual diary of our lives. Now more than ever, I think people want to see authenticity and unique character come through the screen. I think that is how we feel connected through this medium. Showing yourself, and connections you have made–interests outside of your art. Its all opportunity to relate. When people feel connected they are much more inclined to feel connected wearing your work or your art.

Something else that I really take a lot of time doing is collaborations. I think this is a great opportunity to cross pollinate your viewers. Trust creates trust, and getting in front of the right people like that can build up a great audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rahyajewelrydesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahyajewelrydesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rahyajewelrydesign