tell us about your background
Igrew up in Melbourne but now live in Perth with my partner and two sons. By qualification I am a Geologist and over the last 10 years my job has taken me to Vietnam, Laos, outback Australia and Mexico. As exciting as this has been, I have decided to steer away from Geology for the time being and to pursue something I really enjoy – making polymer clay jewellery.
tell us about what you create
I make rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and some bookmarks. Some of my more popular pieces are the beaded statement necklaces. I take custom orders and variations.
what made you start making your pieces?
I have always loved to create and wear jewellery. When I was in primary school I was stringing and looming seed beads and even selling some necklaces to classmates. Many years later, during my R&R travels whilst working as an expat Geologist, I took silversmithing classes in both Mexico and Bali. But what finally inspired to turn to polymer clay jewellery was my son! His fascination with Play-Doh made me ask myself ‘could that be fun for me too?’ And fun it has been :-)
What is your inspiration/influences?
I take inspiration from everyday shapes and patterns I see around me. From the colour combination on a woman’s dress in the street to the pattern and shades on a leaf I found in the park. Whatever I look at and am drawn to, I try to apply to my jewellery.
What materials do you use?
Polymer clay – Fimo brand. I also use pre-made bezels, chain and findings (brass-tone and sterling silver plated) for some of my pieces. For stringing beaded necklaces I used knotted hemp cord (strong and no running dye).
tell us about your creative process?
I use polymer clay to shape the pieces (millefiori technique, stamping, application of paints and embellishments etc). Afterwards, the pieces are cured in the oven at 110 degrees. I then sand and varnish them to achieve a professional finish.
why did you choose in.cube8r?
Usually, an artist has limited choices when it comes to selling their work. Markets and retailers are the most common options which can be costly either in terms of time or money (or both!). In.cube8r, as I see it, is a fair and affordable way in which artists can get great exposure to their target market.
anything else you would like to add?
I highly value people’s questions/comments/feedback. If there is something you would like to chat about, please feel free to send an email to info@zhabkadesigns.com
where else can we find you?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/zhabkadesigns
http://www.facebook.com/zhabkadesigns