Indie Designer Interviews: Valerie Tyler Designs
Filed under: Accessories, Style in the News, Interviews
The following is part of an ongoing segment I call Indie Designer Interviews. Today's interview is with jewelry designer Valerie Tyler, of aptly named Valerie Tyler Designs. Her jewelry collections include modern twists on simple geometric designs as well as intricate wire-wrapped scrolls. Valerie loves combining the feminine with more industrial elements, and aims for her work to have a sleek, urban look. How did you get started as a designer? My entry into jewelry design was due to a variety of factors. I took a jewelry design class in college for a fun elective and absolutely loved it. Turns out I was pretty good at sawing metal! I also then accompanied my mom to several of her craft shows where she sold her photography and would put out some of my jewelry to make a few extra bucks. When I discovered people loved what I had displayed I realized I could really do something with my skills.
What inspires your work? I've studied all sorts of jewelry designers to encourage myself to be creative about shape and form. I'm also an avid reader. I've used things such as old iron-work design books, or weaving patterns, as well as architectural details on buildings to get ideas. In addition, I take inspiration from geometry and nature. I love simple shapes, and I'm obsessed with scrolls. I love to combine such designs in new ways.
Who are your favorite designers? As far as indie designers, I love the work of Iza Malczyk. She really pushes the boundaries of wire wrapping. Her ideas are so creative, I always love to see what she comes up with next. Not to mention, I love it when I absolutely cannot figure out how a jeweler made something. Locally, I also love the ladies of Cleveland Handmade, a group of designers I belong to. It's always wonderful to share ideas, jokes and stories with them. They keep me motivated and inspired.
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