We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cynthia Hendrickson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Cynthia , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
Generally, any creative endeavor involves risk. Whether it is music, sculpture, writing, painting, etc., the creative is putting their work out for others to experience. That experience could result in appreciation or rejection.
Cynthia , 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 have worked with my hands nearly my entire life. As a teenager, I often sketched and drew, and was encouraged by a friend to apply to The High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. This process involved a presentation of a portfolio of works, as well as in-person interviews and on-the-spot art assignments. Fortunately, I was accepted into the school which positively impacted my life on many levels, not just the creative portion.
In my adult life, I have worn several hats. My last non-art position was as a high school science teacher. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the students.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Never give up. Life is a process involving growth.
I began metalsmithing at the age of 15, but life got in the way, as it often does. Sixteen years ago, I re-entered the jewelry world, creating primarily beaded pieces. Over time, I relearned metalsmithing techniques and began my current journey. The easiest way to gain exposure is through juried art shows. This involves having your work professionally photographed, including a photo of the booth setup. Top art shows are extremely competitive (particularly in the jewelry category) making entry as a new artist challenging.
It took many years of rejections before I garnered a place in the top shows. I remain dedicated to improving my craft and those acceptances are the reward.
Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.
Metalsmithing provides opportunities for problem solving. Jewelry is small-scale sculpture and often requires modifications to original designs in order to accomplish the fabrication. It is a bit of engineering with a lot of creativity. The fabrication will inform the design and those necessary changes can be a part of the design success. This requires patience and the ability to fail forward. Not all designs can be easily fabricated. Failing is a way to learn and refine design goals.
Part of the process of refining my work was to attend speciality workshops and take lessons from a local jewelry artist. I always feel that each piece is an opportunity to practice my skill set. Nothing is ever perfect, but improved with each attempt! I strive for perfection, but am able to realize that perfection is a construct.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.creativehabitsjewelry.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativehabitsjewelry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creativehabitsjewelry
Image Credits
Jewelry photos by Larry Sanders, Sanders Visual Images.