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

Hi Nathaniel, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

My journey as an artist has been a continuous process of learning and growth. It began at community college, where I took some basic courses before seeking out guidance from friends I began to make in within the jewelry industry. Much of my knowledge is self-taught through trial and error, supplemented by private courses in stone setting, engraving, and lapidary work. This world of jewelry has so many nooks and crannies; you could make a career out of any step of the creative process.

Looking back, if I wanted to speed up the learning process, I would have looked into taking a job at a jewelry store. Instead, I followed my own path, focusing on creating art rather than getting too bogged down with the business side of things. By focusing on passion projects alongside my custom work I was able to really focus on developing my style as an artist.

The key to my success has been refusing to stick to just one aspect of jewelry making. The specialized courses I have been able to take really opened my eyes and gave me a deep understanding of what it takes to craft something truly special.

For a long time I was one of my own biggest obstacles, I’ve had to battle with self-doubt and the fear of messing up quite a bit. Plus, resources and tools haven’t always been easy to come by, especially in the early days. But I’ve pushed through, learning from my mistakes and always striving to get better. Along the way, I’ve had amazing support from the community. People have been super generous with their knowledge over the years.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Since I was a kid growing up on Long Island, I’ve always been crazy about art. I’d hunt down any creative outlet I could find. When I graduated high school, I was on a mission to turn my love for art into a paycheck. So, I landed myself in an architectural design program in Boulder, Colorado. It taught me a ton about discipline and hard work, even though it wasn’t my final path. But hey, it led me to the one I’m on now.

Here we are 10 years later and I now operate a private studio of my own on the outskirts of Denver, Colorado. I focus primarily on custom one of a kind creations while also producing production style designs that are available on a made to order basis. At Freed Mind Fabrications, I’m in the business of creating bespoke pendants, rings, bridal wear—you name it. Turning loose ideas into tangible jewelry that lasts a lifetime.

What really gets me going is the connection I build with each client. Getting a custom piece made can be a bit daunting, and I love holding their hand through the whole process. I want them to understand the nitty-gritty steps, so they appreciate the hard work behind each project. Plus, it helps them navigate the jewelry-making world, so they don’t get taken for a ride elsewhere. Unlike some in the industry, I take pride in being a jack of all trades!

Over the years I have been able to hone a style that is very unique to the work I put out in the world. This allows my clients to each take home a little part of my soul and share it with the people around them. I think it’s important to stand out in a sea of repetitive cookie cutter designs that many people flaunt these days.

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

To me the best way society can support creatives is to actively seek us out! With all this tech at our fingertips, finding cool artists is easier than ever. Social media’s a gem for discovering fresh talent. It’s like a treasure trove waiting to be explored for all mediums.

When you support an independent artist or small business, you’re not just getting a product—you’re building a connection with someone who pours their heart and soul into what they do. It’s personal. It’s real. And it’s way more fulfilling than just snagging something off a big-name shelf.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

You know, there’s something special about taking a bunch of raw materials and turning them into a work of art. Whether I’m shaping each piece by hand or tinkering with digital designs, there’s this amazing feeling that courses through you as an idea takes shape. Sure, each project comes with its own set of challenges, but when you finally nail it, there’s nothing quite like it. The cherry on top is when a client shows up to pick up a project they have been patiently waiting for. Seeing the look on someone’s face when they finally lay eyes on something for the first time truly invigorates me as I turn the page and begin the next project.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://freedmindfabrications.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freed_mind_fabrications/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freedmindfabrications/

Image Credits
All images were shot by me.