We recently connected with Karin West and have shared our conversation below.
Karin, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
My first memories are wanting to make things and make presents for people. I have always been obsessed with creating new things. Fortunately for me I had a family that was very supportive. I truly feel if you follow your passions and do a lot of hard work that you will be successful as you will get to do what you love.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I design creative Handmade Jewelry. I have always loved to make things, I pursued that passion and began selling my designs to stores at a very early age. In a creative path it is not necessary to go to school for it, as long as you have a desire and apply yourself it is easy to teach yourself so many things. The answer to everything (almost) can be found on You Tube.
The problem I solve for clients is that I offer something artistic and special in the marketplace.
In making handmade items in the US and selling to stores, you must be able to offer a product, and a cost that will be able to appeal to a consumer.
I am very proud that I have been able to run my own small art business completely on my own terms for over 30 years. Currently, I work with hundreds of Boutiques & Galleries across the country and I am still as inspired as I ever was to create new things.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
When I first began designing jewelry, I had absolutely no funds and no training, so I had to rely completely on my creativity to survive! I can tell stories of making things with all sorts of odd materials including paper, broken glass, nuts & bolts, guitar strings, paint etc. My super skill is that I could probably make something out of anything. I feel that that creative muscle strengthens the more you apply it and it has served me well all of these years.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
I get to do exactly what I want and to express my creativity daily. Although I work very hard (workaholic), I absolutely love what I do, and it means so much to me that so many people love it as well. I am honored that people continue to support my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kbdstudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kbdstudiodesigns/