We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Laura Gooley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Laura, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Ever since I was young, I was always drawn to anything that inspired me to create. I adored Art class in grade school, high school, and decided to go to a college focused on perfecting an art, the beautiful art of photography. I found throughout my life, the only time I truly felt happy was when I was creating something. After about a 16 year break of raising some fantastic kids, I jumped back into creating things again. It started mainly with Photography, then, soon after added jewelry that seemed to pair beautifully with my photographs.

Laura, 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?

My business consists of two things, handmade jewelry and unique photography suggesting an alternate reality to the everyday things we see. Almost depicting a dream, I like to show people how I see the world, which essentially is embracing tranquil simplicity, rustic elegance, and imperfect beauty as perfect. My jewelry designs are from glass, brass & copper, hammered and cut to show the beauty in natural elements. I love incorporating pieces that also have a beautiful patina finish on both brass & copper. I use various metal stamps for textures on metals, glass beads that have the look of beautiful stones. I feel my jewelry and photography go hand in hand complimenting each other to showcase simplicity & my love for nature. All items lead & nickel free, hypoallergenic, safe from toxic chemicals, fully embracing the beauty of nature into safe wearable art.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The absolute most rewarding aspect of being an artist is I can relieve any type of stress I’m going through by just grabbing my camera and disappearing into the woods or sitting down and make some new design for jewelry. I became a full time artist 2 years ago, and I adore the time I get to have with my littlest one. At 46, my perspective has changed 100% from as it was 20yrs ago, stop and look at everything, see the beauty that surrounds us all the time. Appreciate every moment.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I think my main mission driving me each day in this journey is purely to find something that challenges me and equally brings me joy. Which honestly, has been my kids & my creative journey combined! When kids can drive you crazy, the art is there to make ya sane again! I love art in all forms, and I love being able to travel with my business and meet so many other artists. We inspire each other to keep creating & keep going. Anything that heals, inspires & brings communities together is absolute magic. Art makes a difference,

Contact Info:

• Website: www.CopperTwigGallery.Etsy.com
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/thecoppertwig