In the Spotlights 2014 | Page 27

But like most artists, I am tempted to try new things. I am very intrigued with metal clays and would love to give that a go one day if I can find a kiln to borrow. But the one thing that I really want to experiment with most is enameling. One day when the children are older I will buy a torch and some enameling powders and play.

Q: What inspires you in your work?

Nature, texture, shapes and colors. My grandmother loved the great outdoors. She taught me all the names of our native birds and could do their calls. I think of her every time I create a bird bead. The texture of feathers or flower petals is exciting to see come to shape in my hands. And I have had lots of wonderful suggestions from customers who inspire me to make a critter that I had not thought of before.

Q: I am curious: what does a typical day in the life of Rejetta Sellers looks like?

Ha, ha…ever changing, patience is a must! I wake up between 5:00-5:30 and try to get as much done as possible before my children, Andregg 6, Wrenn 4, wake at 7:00. I made the huge decision to home school my son for kindergarten this year. My time creating has changed a lot. I do get to return to my work room at nap times and check my emails before heading to bed at night. I am not producing as much now but I am happy to be able to work on projects I love and spend my days seeing my children blossom. I have a very fulfilling life.

Q: There are a lot of bead and jewelry artists. Is there a particular artist you admire or who you consider a role model?

Such a personal question, it makes me think of so many lovely artists inspiring and encouraging me. For polymer clay it is almost 100% Christi Friesen’s magical polymer creations. Hers was the project in that magazine long ago that caused me to buy my first block of clay- the way I approach blending my clay and the whimsical realism of my critters are inspired by her work. But never once did I think to make my polymer clay creations for

my Etsy store until my good friend, Teresa Hulley of Bo Hulley Beads saw this bracelet using her beads and one of my first birdhouses. She loved it and suggested I make more and see how they do in my shop. She was also the one who said, “Let’s try birds.”

But for jewelry personal style shines through in everyone’s work. I love Anne Perry’s clean lines, Kristy Abner’s way of evoking a since of the past in her pieces, Erin Seigel’s love of fiber and Lorelei Eurto’s bold and unerring since of color, shape, form and sizing.