We were lucky to catch up with Kendria Thompson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kendria, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I started my journey into metalsmithing in 2015 after designing costume jewelry for 5 years. I honed my skills in metalsmithing through a combination of trial and error, online resources such as YouTube, metalsmithing books, and the generosity of experienced makers who were willing to share their knowledge.

I embraced a hands-on approach and learned the most by experimenting with various techniques and materials, discovering what worked best through practical experience. YouTube became an invaluable resource for me as well, since it offered a vast amount of tutorials and demonstrations from skilled jewelry designers. Aside from being a hands on learner, I’m also a visual learner, and with YouTube, it allowed me to observe and learn techniques at my own pace. Equally essential to my learning journey were the generous makers within the jewelry community on Instagram. Their willingness to share insights, tips, and tricks helped my progression. Engaging with this supportive network not only expanded my knowledge but also fostered a sense of community within the craft.

My journey towards mastering the intricate art of metalsmithing is an ongoing and perpetual endeavor, and this perpetual learning is one of the reasons why I’ve remained dedicated to the craft. The joy of uncovering creative techniques ensures that my artistic journey in metalsmithing remains an endlessly fascinating and enriching experience.

Kendria, 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 had always been interested in the Arts from an early age. Around 8, I taught myself how to string beads and by 14, I was playing multiple instruments and sewing cute rainbow star curtains for the windows in my bedroom. My curiosity for creativity never faded, and I eventually taught myself how to manipulate websites with HTML & how to utilize Photoshop. (This was back when you didn’t have to pay monthly for Adobe products!) I pursued a career in the Graphic Design/Multimedia Industry and took several semesters before life switched gears and brought me to jewelry design. Today, I do accept commissions for a variety of multimedia projects, such as graphic design, illustration, and web design. As a strong supporter of small businesses, I take pleasure in working with artists & entrepreneurs to help make their businesses stand out.

I’ve never wanted to limit my creative expression by forcing myself to stick with just one artistry. In 2012, I started my jewelry business venture. I was enamored with the variety of designs I could make from simple materials, like bead and wire. This is also when I started to become fascinated with gemstones. Wanting to progress in jewelry-making, I eventually started my metalsmithing journey in 2015, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made alongside learning the art of lapidary. I quickly learned that both metalsmithing and lapidary could be expensive endeavors and slowly gathered materials as time went on. I began with the basics and worked my way up from there. For example, the first piece I created was on top of a red brick, which is not typical in the jewelry industry, but I made it work with the little I had. I also shaped and polished my first cabochon using untraditional techniques, which fueled my drive to get lapidary equipment.

Today, I offer a variety of treasures. I call my work treasures as a play off my business name, but also as a way to honor the work I’ve done. I feel like every piece I offer to the world is a treasure to be loved and adorned by the wearer. In my online shop, you’ll find necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, lapel, pins, hair accessories, and other non-jewelry items. Most of my work offered is sterling silver, but I also work with gold and other metals.

You can email to inquire about custom orders at [email protected]. Custom treasures are perfect for those who are looking for something unique, such as stamped jewelry, or a size that isn’t typically made by other artists, such as small and large rings. I’ve enjoyed making rings for my own child, so I see the lack of smaller sizes in the industry. I also have been requested many times to make larger custom rings, for which I happily do. Everyone deserves stunning treasures that make them feel special!

The thing that gives me the most joy is seeing my jewelry designs come into fruition. Being able to hold jewelry that was once a mere thought is beyond satisfying, especially when it’s shiny!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

As someone who truly enjoys seeing other artists thrive in their artistry, I love helping others succeed in their business by giving them metalsmithing tips when asked, and I’m oftentimes met with questions about how I gained my “success”. This question usually gets brought up after seeing my followers count.

For a while, I even thought that once I hit 10,000 followers on Instagram, selling would be nearly effortless. This was the biggest lie I had to unlearn. Followers are just that… followers. The amount of followers someone has does not equate to how many sales they’re receiving. Nothing about marketing is linear, and it’ll always take effort, especially with selling one-of-a-kind art.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

The world can contribute to the arts in a countless amount of ways, and while financial support is crucial, one of the most impactful ways, aside from monetary contributions, is through word of mouth. When individuals genuinely appreciate an artist’s work, the power of their recommendation can extend far beyond financial backing. It’s often the case that if one person values an artist’s creations, they are likely to share their enthusiasm with 2-3 other individuals who may similarly appreciate and support the artist. This organic reach not only broadens the artist’s audience but also creates a sense of community and connection among those who share a common appreciation for artistic expression.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.solidtreasures.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/solidtreasures
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/SolidTreasures
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@solidtreasures3692