Meet Melanie Culver

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Culver.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I grew up in the late Sixties and early Seventies where creativity and expression were the order of the day. I was always painting, sketching, doing photography or some other creative endeavor. One thing never fired a passion in me though.

Eleven years ago, I started beading and making jewelry. Those things all required purchasing Silver, Copper or Brass clasps and ear wires that were premade. I soon wanted to make my own. I started taking local jewelry classes on silversmithing, forging and such. Once I got a torch in my hands I was hooked. Something magical occurs when fire and metal meet. Soon people started asking me if I would make things for them as well. I began to collect so many pieces of jewelry I would never be able to wear them all. Friends started encouraging me to sell my wares, and StilaHipee Jewelry was born.

Please tell us about your art.
My jewelry is made of metals that are handforged, textured or stamped, I use primarily sterling silver and stones or Gemstones from the earth. I often finish my pieces with a soft patina that gives them an earthy look and shows off the textures used, they are rarely blingy. I have been asked where I get my inspiration from, it’s really not one thing…

It could be a mood, a stone, nature or a whim. A stone that reminds me of an ocean reef, a mountain, trees or an animal spotted on a camping trip or a ride on my Harley. Recently it was a fabric pattern! These sights and experiences will all bring an influence to what I’m working on at that time.

A technique used on a piece another Artisan has created that I am not familiar with may influence a design. I love challenging myself to learn a new technique. For me creativity has always been linked to learning.

Sometimes I make a sketch and the piece evolves on its own as I go, being something completely new and different than anything else I have done before.

I always want my jewelry to be something worn and loved, not to be stashed in drawer for special occasions

Inspiration is never dull or stagnant. I rarely make the same thing twice.

What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
Being an artist today is amazing! With the global markets, the Internet and all the educational opportunities it is so
much easier to reach people and learn today than it was just 20 years ago.

I remember searching for art classes and having to travel to another city or wait for a semester to begin for a new class. Today even small towns offer a variety of artistic endeavors and classes in all kinds of mediums.

Self-learning for artists is huge with Utube availability.

Cities and small towns need to continue to enrich its people, and continue to offer a venue like the Gilbert or Chandler Art Walks that are reasonable to participate in and accessible to its residents.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have an online store through Etsy. StilaHipeejewelry@ETSY.com has many of my pieces for sale there.

My home studio is open to people on an appointment basis. It is always a gas to see people’s reactions to my studio when they arrive and see where it all happens. (I have some pretty cool tools that evoke a “Wow, what is that?” response. I love that.) I think it really makes it personal for them too.

I also sell at open air markets such as the Gilbert Art Walk, those dates and locations can be found on my Etsy store. The first time I set up at an open-air market I was thrilled with getting my creations out in the sunshine, it was a surprising sensation! I’m a real people person and really enjoy chatting it up with those interested, people always are a delight with their questions and comments on the jewelry. It’s been a real kick to hear the reactions to the StilaHipee name too.

Since becoming a small business person it has really opened my eyes to how important it is to support small businesses. I try to walk my talk in all my purchases. I spend more than I make at the shows around the holidays, and am always spreading the word for other entrepreneurs.

Contact Info:

• Website: StilaHipeejewelry@Etsy.com
• Email: stilahipeejewelry@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram@Stilahipee
• Facebook: StilaHipee Jewelry on Facebook

Image Credit:
StilaHipee Jewelry

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