Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Izzy Kelson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Izzy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I took a jewelry making course in college and instantly fell in love with the process. We made a simple ring on the first day and I remember wanting to learn it all on that day. It was my favorite class and I knew that this is what I wanted to do. I slowly started buying the tools that I needed to start on my own. To this day I still don’t have all the tools and equipment I’d like to have. I think that is a big reason why I love metalsmithing so much. There’s so much you can do and I’m endlessly learning new methods.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hello! I’m Izzy Kelson, a metalsmith based in southern Utah. I’ve been making jewelry for 6 years now. I make everything from rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, cuffs, bolo ties and hair pins.

Art has always been a deep passion of mine. I’ve explored many different hobbies from guitar, piano, violin, drawing, painting & dancing. I’ve loved every single one. Creating art, in its myriad of forms, is my happy place.

When I discovered jewelry making 6 years ago I knew I wanted to start my own business. The process of taking metal, stones, gems, etc. and shaping it to be wearable art is why I feel in love with it.

Living in the desert has provided a lot of inspiration for me. I love exploring where we live and finding quiet spots in nature to let my mind run free. Additionally, my admiration and respect for other cultures has lead me to learn from their traditions and timeless techniques of jewelry making.

I love creating custom pieces for customers and helping their vision come to life just as much as I love creating my own pieces and making those ideas in my mind come to life. Seeing the final product is just as satisfying as the process and that is why I love metalsmithing.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Being able to create with my hands and getting lost in the flow of the process is very rewarding. It’s hard to pick just one, I think there are a lot of aspects that keep me coming back for more. Helping customers bring their ideas to life is another aspect that is so rewarding. I always love handing the final product over and seeing their reaction or reading their kind words of appreciation.

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

I am extremely grateful to those who have supported my small business. It truly means the world. I think by finding those small business inside or outside of your community to support frequently is a huge effort in helping them thrive. It goes a long way and creates meaningful relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: madmule.co
• Instagram: mad.mule