Valerie William interviews Wendy Gray Raven, owner of Gray Raven Mosaic Designs. Wendy works with color and texture to create small-scale mosaic art jewelry with her own contemporary spin.
Tell us a little about yourself and what you create.
Since childhood I have always enjoyed creating art using bits and pieces, whether of fabric, paper, glass, stones, beads, or found objects. In 1999, my youngest of three daughters began kindergarten. I was more then ready to return to creating art so I signed up for a mosaic class. I fell in love with the visual and tactile stimulation that mosaics provided for me and have been exploring and creating mosaics since.
I create one-of-a-kind mosaic pendants, earrings, and cuff links using a wide array of natural gemstones, minerals, and pearls.
When and why did you decide to turn your creative talents into a business?
I began selling mosaic picture frames, vases, and light switch plates about eight years ago. As I developed my art I shifted towards selling fine art pieces. I realized about three years ago, when the economy was so bad, that I wanted to create small scale mosaics in order to make mosaic art more affordable for everyone to enjoy. I decided that creating mosaic jewelry would be the best way for me to start my business.
What do you enjoy most about your online Etsy shop?
I love getting feedback from my customers and other Etsy members. I find it especially rewarding when a buyer shares the reason why they purchased a particular piece of jewelry or how their gift recipient enjoyed receiving it. I also do a lot of custom work and really enjoy collaborating with brides and grooms to create the perfect accessories for their wedding parties.
What inspires you and your creative process?
I see nature as the ultimate artist. Many of my color combinations and designs are inspired by nature. I use only natural gemstones and minerals for my jewelry. When I create my fine art it is my interpretation of nature expressed through mosaics.
What has been the most rewarding thing about being an artist?
I enjoy the creative process of creating mosaics, taking pieces of things to create something entirely new. I like being able to use color and textures to create something that evokes a response from others.
Why did you name your shop “Gray Raven”?
Professionally, I have used both my maiden and married names together: Gray Raven. The name is an unusual combination that people seem to remember. My business name, “Gray Raven Mosaic Designs,” was too long for Etsy, so I had to shorten it to “Gray Raven.”
Look for Wendy at the DIY Trunk Show on November 19, 2011.
Gray Raven Mosaic Designs:
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Valerie William is the owner of Additions Style.
