Vintage Lace an gemstones hand sewn adorns these designer earrings by Kim Smiley, on Etsy.If I didn't know better, I'd think all of these creations were vintage from the medieval days. They are so finely handcrafted they remind me of the intricate silver and gold once fashioned for Knights, Queens and Kings of ancient times. The jewelry that adorned their weddings. Similar designs in Tibetan jewelry, Celtic wire wrapping and some fancy Paris' couture jewelry. These stunning creations are from the hands of Canadian Artist Kim Smiley, owner of
SapphoByKimSmiley. I had a chance to catch up with her and ask her some questions!
Q: What inspires your creations to be so intricate yet appear so vintage styled? A: I've always been attracted to vintage photographs, books, letters and lace. I think it's because I love history, and vintage objects always have a story, a legacy. I like that the legacy is untold so I can fill in the blanks with my imagination. When I create a painting or a piece of jewelry with a vintage object, I like to contemplate who owned it and imagine if they cherished it. Vintage objects are often so heavy with memories; reusing them in works of art makes the art more meaningful.
SapphoByKimSmiley on Etsy allows you to decide if you want to dress up, or wear them down.Q: I see you are growing your brand online in various ways, not just Etsy. This must take so much time. Who helps you in your creative process? A: My company creates employment opportunities for women who live below the poverty line. I'm teaching them how to sew the pieces and then pay them a Living Wage to help me stock up on my designs. I oversee everything and continue making new designs. Kim's designs are upscale and trendy. I hope she will go far!
You can visit Kim's unique creations:
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