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Artfire Artisan Spotlight: Jackie Rasband, DesignsforAnAngel
Posted by pauljvguillaume on 07/05/2011 at 08:46:38
Please start by telling us a little about yourself and your studio.
I love making things with my own hands. I take a lot of pride in my work and I feel the most precious gift you can give a person is something hand-made with love. My sister got me started on beading several years ago and with some urging from family and friends, I started selling to the public last November. To date I have sold just under 200 pieces to local people. I believe in personalizing my designs so most of what I sell is one-of-a-kind jewelry.
If there’s one thing that defines you, what is it?
I love angels and all my creations are designed for those angels out there. When they wear one of my creations, I want to remind them how special they are.
What role does your family play in your art?
My family members are my biggest supporters. They inspire me and critique my work, which keeps me grounded.
Where do you live and what is it like?
I live in the West Jordan, UT, which is just 30 minutes outside of Salt Lake City. It's really a great place to raise a family and has so much to offer in the way of skiing, hiking, boating, and national forests. If you've never visited Utah, you have no idea what you're missing.
What are your goals with your ArtFire studio?
I am looking for a way to get my jewelry out there for the public and after doing some research, ArtFire seemed to me the best choice. I love the personalization that can be done with each shop. So far my experience with the website has been wonderful, and it's so easy for seller's to use.
What is the best piece of advice you can give other artists?
Personalize your pieces and put part of yourself in them. I am constantly looking for new ideas and new products that can help me develop my unique designs. I spend hours working on my jewelry and find it to be so therapeutic.
Why do you think that buying and selling handmade products benefits society?
Nothing beats the personal touch and attention that someone puts into a handmade item. It is comforting to me to see someone wear something I have designed, it's like a have shared an important part of myself with them. My goal is to ensure that each person loves their piece just as much as I loved designing it for them.
