FEATURED ARTIST - Lily of BITS & BOBS - Steampunk Jewelry

I happened to meet Lily when running a post for Etsy artists who would like to have their mini on my DZFANTASY blog. I was very intrigued with her unique jewelry, and thought it would be great to have her out here as one of my "featured artists".......SO WELCOME, Lily of BITS & BOBS - Steampunk Jewelry.

I am a mom of two wonderful daughters, one of whom is home schooled. I specialise in one of a kind steampunk and dieselpunk jewelry, but you'll find I simply like pretty, shiny things (don't we all?).

What led you to start creating your art?

I've always liked making things and dabbled in various craft forms since childhood. I've also always been attracted to fantasy and alternate universes, steampunk is a perfect fit for me. What really brought it home was the first time I looked at a broken bit of clock and saw something else entirely.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I can't sew or draw, so anything I create has to be has to be more a building thing. Steampunk as a genre is very clockwork and cogwheels, brass, glass, and steam. This works well for me as I have an affinty for metal. The Victorian element lets me add pretty things simply for the visual effect, thus filling my need for sparkly bits.

What aspect of creating your art do you find the most enjoyable?

Wrecking things. *grin* Seriously, I have to take things apart to make my pieces. I often corrode or oxidized things and work to keep rust, not eliminate it. Ironically, wrecking something correctly can be tough. I also enjoy the hunt for components. I find things in the oddest places - junk shops, salvage yards, garages. My father in law's basement is a dream come true in worn out, vintage hardware. I'm just glad I'm current with my tetanus shots!

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art?

Look beyond what you see to what could be. I got into a LOT of trouble as a kid and was told countless times that I would amount to nothing. Many people look at my components the same way. Thing is, you just never know. In the right setting, things shine in ways that will surprise.

What advice do you have for other artists?

Learn something new every day. Scare yourself half to death once a day. Cut yourself some slack several times a day.

Thanks a lot, Lily for giving us an insight into your wonderful work! You have a good "eye" for creating! To see more of Lily's work, be sure to visit her Etsy shop by clicking on the link below. To go directly to one of her pieces shown below, just click on the photo.

LILY'S FLICKR SITE