Jan Stiles of North Phoenix on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Jan Stiles shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Jan, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
integrity

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I design fine art jewelry statement pieces, giving the wearer versatile jewelry with authentic materials that help them complete their personal style. I love the colors and feel of semi-precious stones along with pearls, silver, copper, bronze, and gold. My background in architecture at the University of Michigan provides a strong feeling of movement and 3-dimensionality. I also enjoy the controlled chaos of reticulated and fine silver, the sparkle of a beautiful stone, or the luster of a fabulous pearl. Underlying themes in my collections are the use of authentic materials and unusual applications of metalsmithing.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My paternal grandmother. She shaped my conservative views about money and resources: “If you watch the pennies, the dollars take care of themselves”. Other resources should not be squandered either; reuse them whenever possible and donate to allow others to use them as well.

When did you last change your mind about something important?
never

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Individualism and personal responsibility.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
What I was born to do, in all three careers, architecture, education, and now art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://treselegantedesigns.com
• Instagram: @treselegantedesigns
• Facebook: @treselegantedesigns
• Other: Pinterest: Tres Elegante Designs

Image Credits
My personal photo: Gerre Heron, Photo 1of additional photos, Darcy Borg, all other photos, I took myself