Q: There are a lot of bead and jewelry artists. Is there a particular artist you admire or who you consider a role model?
I admire any one with originality and skill in their work. Having tried out pretty much everything, I can appreciate the skill, patience and talent that goes in to each little work of art. My original favourite and the person who’s work got me the kiln is the lamp work artist Lydia Muell. I saw her beads and decided that was it… I had to make beads too! I am still in awe of her work!
Q: You have achieved a lot in the beading world. Is there a next goal you want to accomplish?
It sounds terrible, but I’ve never really had goals. I have lots of things I’d like to do, but I love the natural approach to my work and seeing where it takes me. I’ve been really lucky and had some amazing opportunities come my way, and I like to jump in with both feet and see where I end up.
Q: If you were not a bead artist, what would you be doing?
I think I’d most likely end up as a sign maker again. I did intend on learning how to sign write traditionally with a brush and paint, and to learn
how to pinstripe, so if someone took away my kiln, that’s probably where you’d find me!
Q: Do you have a life motto and if so, would you like to share this with us?
Yes, my motto is ‘There are always two chances!’ You could fail miserably, or you could have a great success, but you’ll never know unless you try!
Q: Do you have tips, tricks or advise you like to share with us?
It’s a bit corny, but be true to yourself! In the early days, I spent a lot of my time wondering what people wanted, what designs would they like, what colours should I glaze my beads… I think after a while it made me quite miserable. I decided that I would create work for myself, work that I liked and if anyone else liked it, that was a bonus! I was very lucky that they did, and I have a great time coming up with new ideas and designs. You work for yourself because you love what you’re doing, so make sure you enjoy it!
You can find Caroline's beads in her etsy shop and in her webshop.
More information can be found on her facebook page and her blog.