Wednesday Indie Artist Fixx with Yen Jewelry

A little late in the day I admit, but here’s this Wednesday’s Indie Artist Fixx interview with Nicole of Yen Jewelry. Nicole makes gorgeous & intricate jewelry creations that will make you go, “Wow!” Read more about Nicole and Yen Jewelry below.

1. What’s the name of your business and what do create and sell?

Yen Jewelry is my line and I offer intricately styled jewelry that is made from finer materials.

2. When did you get started with your business and why did you decide to open your own indie biz?

Although I have been making jewelry for myself for quite some time, I officially opened up shop for my line in April 2006 as a result of all the requests I had from people who wanted to purchase pieces from my personal collection.

3. What’s the creative process like for you?

I usually find something that inspires me when I am not looking for it. I then start sketching designs reflect my interpretation of what inspired the design. I keep several sketchbooks in different areas so I will always have one available when ideas arise.

4. What’s been your biggest accomplishment so far?

Major media coverage and the occasional celebrity appreciation are always nice. I have many goals that are yet to be achieved, but it always gives me chills to see a complete stranger wearing something I created.

5. Tell us one funny/goofy/silly thing about yourself.

I believe the air inside all Neiman Marcus stores has therapeutic powers, since I know I always feel great when I enter one.

6. What’s the best thing about what you do? And the worst?

Of course, the design process is my favorite part. The worst parts, I guess, are the ones that pull me away from designing all the time.

7. What blogs and mags do you read and what shops do you shop at? List as many as you want.

Gizmodo, Decor8, Design Sponge, Something Old, Something New and the occasional… well, not so occasional gossip blog. Unfortunately, I haven’t had much time for shopping lately.

8. Were you an artsy craftsy kid? If so, what kinds of things did you do?

I grew up with a sketch book in short reach at all times. I also did a lot of watercolor and oil painting and sold those for extra money as a kid and until I graduated college. Not only was I artsy, but I was also entrepreneurial!

9. If a genie came along and granted you one wish, what would it be?

That my line would be sold in Neiman Marcus and/or Barneys.

10. What does indie mean to you? You can give a literal definition, choose to be a little esoteric or a combination of both. 😉

Having complete control and ownership of my own vision and designs.

11. What are you reading, watching and listening to?

Reading: “The Year of Living Biblically: One Man’s Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible” by A.J. Jacobs; “Mississippi Sissy” by Kevin Sessums. I love reading and read a few books a month.

Watching: “Project Runway”

Listening: Currently I have Radiohead’s “In Rainbows,” Polyphonic Spree’s “The Fragile Army” and old Duran Duran in heavy rotation.

12. What are your inspirations?

Inspiration comes from the most unexpected places and changes daily. Recently, I developed a small collection of one-of-a-kind and limited release necklaces based on a beautiful leaf I found in a box of baby spinach. Many of my designs are inspired by my love of the ornate costuming found in Bollywood films.

13. What’s new for 2008? Any new plans or products that you want to share?

I am just planning on making more great jewelry.