We recently connected with Katherine Bennett and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Katherine, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
To me, the most meaningful project I’ve worked on is definitely my Suppression line. These necklaces are a way for me to express the internal struggle I’ve faced with expressing myself. It’s about that feeling of being silenced, of having your voice taken away. The bullet casings represent the trauma that can suppress our emotions, while the lips symbolize communication and vulnerability. It’s a constant battle between wanting to connect with others and being afraid to let them see the real you.
I’ve struggled with this myself, and I think a lot of people can relate. It’s like you’re always wearing a mask, afraid to show your true self. Creating this line has been incredibly therapeutic for me. It’s helped me process my own experiences and hopefully connect with others who feel the same way.
Katherine, 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?
Well, I’ve always been drawn to jewelry. Even as a kid, I was fascinated by the intricate and over-the-top designs I’d see in fashion shows and magazines. I started experimenting with making my own pieces just for fun, and over time, I realized I had a knack for it. I started exploring different techniques and mediums, searching for a way to convey my thoughts and feelings through my work.
It was really encouraging when friends, family, and even some strangers started complimenting my work. That’s when I thought, maybe I could actually do this professionally. I started selling locally and eventually built an online presence. Connecting with other jewelry artists has been amazing. They’ve been a great source of inspiration and support. I’ve even had the opportunity to exhibit my work in some incredible cities, like Milan, Venice and London.
For me, jewelry is more than just accessories. It’s a way to express myself and share my story. Each piece I create is a little piece of me, filled with emotions and memories. I always try to do something different, something that stands out. I love using unique materials and incorporating symbolism. It’s like inviting people to embark on a personal journey with my jewelry. Wearing jewelry is a way to connect with others on a deeper level. It’s a way to share a piece of yourself and maybe even spark a conversation.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
To foster a thriving creative ecosystem, society must prioritize supporting emerging artists. By actively seeking out and patronizing smaller artists, we can ensure the continued vitality of the arts. Supporting local businesses and attending juried art shows that showcase original work are tangible ways to contribute. Even if purchasing isn’t feasible, sharing artists’ work online or offering words of encouragement can significantly impact their careers. Remember, artists often face emotional challenges, and a simple gesture of support can be invaluable.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
Early in my career, I attended a local art show in Louisville and encountered a woman whose captivating fantasy drawings deeply resonated with me. Sharing my recent struggles with creating art solely for commercial gain, she revealed her own journey. Once focused on hyper-realistic depictions, she found that such work lacked fulfillment. Inspired by her words, she advised me to prioritize artistic authenticity. ‘If you want to be an artist,’ she said, ‘make what you love, and others will notice.’ This conversation was a turning point. I shifted my focus to creating jewelry and wearable art that reflected my unique vision, ultimately finding greater fulfillment and artistic expression.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.AmendedElements.com
- Instagram: @AmendedElements
