AJD-Featured Artisan Non-Member: July 2010

Here is our interview with Joanne Ortiz, of The Purple Lily Designs:

Non-Member Featured Artists Name: Joanne Ortiz

Name of Your Shops:   PurpleLily Designs

Names of places you can be found on the internet:
www.thepurplelilydesigns.com  main site
w.thepurplelilydesigns.etsy.com - Etsy Jewelry Shop
www.purplelilydesigns.etsy.com - Etsy Supply Shop
www.purplelilydesigns.artfire.com - Artfire Jewelry & Supply Shop

Tell us a little bit about your family:

I am married to Angel Ortiz and have 5 children, 2 girls and 3 boys. We are a crafting family and enjoy making things together. Three or four times a month we get together and either make pages to add to our family album or pick activites and just make them together.

What inspired you to create the business you own?

I wanted to share my passion for making things with others. Problem is, I couldn't afford to just keep all the things that I made so my husband suggested I try to sell my handmade pieces.

How long have you been designing jewelry? Do you design any components of the jewelry you make?

Yes, I feel that I put a little piece of myself in each piece I make. I love making things with my hands.

What types of materials do you use to create your designs?

Gemstones, Ceramic Clay, Wire, Wood, Pearls, Lampwork and Polymer Clay to name a few.

Do you feel that each of your creations expresses a certain part of you?

No, I wouldn't say that but I do feel a connection with my pieces.

Have you ever won awards or been published in a magazine or book, or asked to join any type of organization overseeing information distributed to the public?

My work has been featured in:
Step by Step Wire Jewelry Magazine
Art Jewelry Magazine
Step By Step Wire Jewelry Magazine
Complete guide to making Wire Jewelry Book

What is a typical day in your life like?

Well, I work most of the day. Becasue my studio is in the house, I stop often to check on the children, take care of the day to day needs of the house, and take care of the orders that I have.

Would you design jewelry again if you had a choice? If Not, why?

Yes, I love it. I also love that I can take clay and lampwork beads that I made myself and incorporate them into my work.

What advice would you give to other women who are afraid to take that step toward making their dream happen?

It is hard, no doubt about it but if it is something you love to do try it! Even if you don't make a living from it it is as awesome way to express yourself. Oh and try, try, and keep trying. Not all of us can become overnight sensations but the more effort you put forth the better results!

How would you advise them to stay on track so they maintain and healthy outlook?

This is a bit hard for me. I left the "work force" about 6 years ago and I provide for my family on the income that I make from my jewelry and supplies. Sometimes it is great and sometimes not.

Here are some of Joanne's designs.   To see more of her designs, you can click on the above links  that will connect you to her shops.