Friday, May 6, 2011

Member Interview: Lia Liette Sharp



Tell us a bit about yourself
A) I'm really just a big kid.  B) I like contradictions/juxtapositions  C) Once upon a time my aspiration was fashion design.  I got scared and didn't pursue it.  Three years later I finally took my first art class and realized I could actually draw a little, but still didn't have a lot of confidence.  Six years after that I took my first Jewelry class.  I feel like jewelry design/fabrication is the perfect nexus of fashion and art. 
 
Describe your work in one sentence
I like making characters by combining traditional methods/materials with whatever oddness strikes my fancy


What pieces are you most proud of?
I'm currently most proud of what I'm calling 'the Tisha Necklace' because, for the first time, I got my 14 year old son to work on jewelry with me. My favorite pieces tend to change with every new wave of work. I'm really happy with the "Grass is Always Greener" skully (pictured above).




What are you favorite materials to work with?
If I had to name specific things it would be copper, enamel, laminate, and Shrinky Dink Paper- but really my favorite is the unexpected outside object that is different every time.  One time it will be an eye from a doll, the next it's 3M orthodontic supplies.


What direction do you see your work going in?
I feel like I'm still 'finding myself' through my art.  Framing is here to stay, but the way it manifests will continue to morph.  My life is currently is mostly pleasant upheaval, and I myself am uncertain how this will affect my art.


Who or what is your biggest artistic influence?
The accouterments of childhood (toys, plastic hair barrettes, etc.) and retro aesthetics. 


What is the best advice you've ever been given?
Work Smarter Not Harder!


If you could add one tool to your collection what would it be?
Sandblaster or vacuum former




What do you listen to in the studio?
I have two in studio playlists.  One is composed of Ratatat, Mimosa, Bonobo, Orbital, and Daft Punk.  The other is anything I find fun to sing to, from Nina Simone to Electric Six.



What is your most prized possession?
My collection of odd bits of this and that.


Do you collect anything? If so, do you display your collections?
See last Question. The display part happens when they find their place in my work.


How do you spend most of your free time?
I ride my bike, listen to music, and I watch cartoons with my shiny new boyfriend.


What do you wish you were doing with your free time?
I sorta gave up on my monthly coloring books.  I'd like to get back to that at some point.




Where can we see your work?
Hunter Plaid in Arcata, CA; Essence Of Humboldt in Arcata, CA; and Origin Design Lab in Eureka, CA. 


I'll also be at the Humboldt Arts Festival with the NCMAG on May 14th and 15th in Arcata, CA.

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