We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Beth deVitry a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Beth, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I earned my Fine Arts degree at Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, At the time I was working in watercolor and oils. After college I started an apprenticeship with a goldsmith in Washington DC and started creating my own designs. I did this for many years, learning various techniques such as stone setting, engraving, wax carving and repair. I worked for a fine jewelry store in Lancaster County for 25 years, designing, creating and repairing jewelry for clients. About 10 years ago, a dear friend and fellow metalsmith gave me a box of enamels. I started playing around with them and was smitten. I suddenly had color back in my world. I took a few workshops (mostly online) and learned as much as I could. I started my business full time about 4 years ago at age 60. There are times that I wish I had started sooner but I really value the skills I learned working full time at a jewelry store. Raising my family, I definitely needed the income and security it afforded me. The fabrication and design skills I learned in my profession have served me well. Some of the obstacles for me going forward have been on the business side of things. Navigating technology, social media and bookkeeping were not taught in the early 80’s in art school.

Beth, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

At this point in my career, I design my own creations. I will occasionally design something for a client but I have become choosy about that. My pieces are collected by individuals who are looking for something truly unique and completely handmade. There is a deep appreciation for the detail and quality of a handmade piece that you won’t find in a commercial store. I am passionate about what I create and truly enjoy when a customer appreciates and supports my work.
Some of my best customers are my students. Cloisonné enameling is labor intensive and a lot of things can wrong in the process. I enjoy passing my knowledge on and believe the process of making things is therapuetic.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I would love to see craft become more accessible and affordable for all income levels. I have spent years purchasing tools for my studio. There are not enough affordable options out there for people that want to learn.
I show my work at craft shows and it can be discouraging at times. Setting up and preparing are exhausting. The outdoor shows are hit or miss with the weather. The support and appreciation from this audience are appreciated by some but I don’t think everyone understands why handmade pieces cost what they do. It is our job as makers to share the process so they understand that.
Sharing on social media, telling a friend and consider purchasing gifts from a small business are small things that are helpful.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

One of the most rewarding things for me has been the flexibility that running my own business offers. I work 40-50 hours a week but I can manage my own time and spend time with my family.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://devitrydesigns.com/
• Instagram: @bedevitreous
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100067452880740/videos/pcb.1093409772917442/664120045955698

Image Credits

Cole Image