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

Hi Bonnie, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I’ve been infatuated with music ever since I could remember. I’m the type to always have music playing. There is nothing like hearing a song that you’ve almost forgotten about and instantly being flooded with memories and feeling attached to just a few notes or words. Certain songs and musicians in my life hold my heart like diary entries. That’s why it was honor, and my most meaningful project yet, to make my favorite musician, Sierra Ferrell, a custom golden whistle ring.

Bonnie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve always loved making things with my hands. I used to write, then I painted for a while, then I became a ceramicist, and now I’m a jewelry artist. For the past few years I’ve been making whistles and ocarina jewelry through the lost-wax-casting process. I enjoy this craft because every piece is one of a kind and I can include all of my previous expressions into the wax by engraving worlds, sculpting forms, and playing music. My whistles take all kinda of forms, from birds to bunnies to simple forms with stone settings. I love making art that you can interact with. This medium is a culmination of all of my favorite things

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

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is setting my mind free to express itself, witnessing the outcome, and then finally seeing others enjoy it.

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

Building an audience takes time. It took me years of posting and selling my work before I had a following. My advice would be keep at it. People will see your passion and will want to be a part of it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @bonnielongino