Studio Evolution and Creative Milestones: A Timeline
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2019
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2020
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2021
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2022
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2023
THE BEGINNING
In the cozy confines of a Haagen-Dazs ice cream shop, my journey into jewelry making unfolded. Armed with a jeweler's bench, a handful of hammers, metals, and a few essential tools, I delved into a world of endless possibilities. As I pored over books, watched instructional videos, and embarked on my experiments, I became captivated by the allure of metals and stones.
Remarkably, this quaint ice cream shop served as both my workshop and a display space for my initial creations. Prior to my venture into jewelry, I had been involved in crafting 'burros' for the shop. It was during this time that my mentor and boss, recognizing my creative potential, handed me a book on the art of jewelry making. From that moment onward, my destiny as a jewelry artist was set in motion, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Studio Apprentice
Simon Garcia, upon seeing my work showcased in the Haagen-Dazs window, extended an invitation for me to join his studio as an apprentice. Swiftly, I immersed myself in this opportunity, frequently collaborating with him and relocating my modest bench to his studio near the vibrant Santa Fe Plaza.
Under Simon's expert guidance, my skills in fabrication flourished, and I eagerly absorbed every facet of his production processes. Not only did I hone my craft, but I also began offering my creations through his company, providing me with a front-row view of the bustling foot traffic around the Plaza. To this day, I maintain a close working relationship with Simon, deeply appreciating his invaluable mentorship and support.
At Home Studio Begins
Creating my own at-home studio had been a long-cherished dream, but I was well aware that the journey wouldn't be without its challenges. At the time, I was sharing a rental space with my best friend, and we had just moved into a place with a two-car garage that needed a significant makeover.
The garage, while far from the aesthetically pleasing art space I envisioned, held immense potential. I understood that every creative journey begins with a humble start. The garage lacked proper flooring, which meant our first task was establishing a safe foundation for the studio. Soon enough, concrete was poured, and the transformation of the space began.
Today, while the studio is now mostly used for storage, it still serves as a hub for creativity, albeit on a smaller scale, with a bit of grinding here and there
Home Studio Expansion
In 2021, a significant milestone was achieved as I successfully transformed another bedroom into a dedicated studio space. This indoor studio came with its own set of considerations, primarily limited ventilation. As a safety precaution, I made the decision to house all toxic tools and materials in the garage.
With the new indoor studio established, I eagerly relocated my main bench, toolbox, and newly acquired tables into this creative haven. The convenience and comfort of working inside were undeniable. It wasn't long before I took the next step by bringing my soldering station indoors, further enhancing the functionality of my artistic workspace.
From Dreams to Reality
In 2022, my business reached exciting new heights. We took the official plunge, transforming a creative passion into a thriving enterprise. Custom orders surged, allowing me to craft unique pieces that truly spoke to my clients' desires.
Under the mentorship of David Paulson, I embarked on a journey into wax carving that opened up a world of possibilities. His expertise and patient guidance not only honed my skills but also introduced me to the realm of CAD programming, elevating my design capabilities. Wax carving and casting became integral aspects of the Skyli Design jewelry process, allowing my creations to take on new dimensions and intricacies.
When the idea of a brick and mortar shop materialized it was just after I lost my Grandmother and dog whom I was very close with. A cozy spot in Santa Fe Village mall, downtown, captured my heart. From late October through November, I worked tirelessly to set up the very first showroom for Skyli Design. December saw the realization of this dream, with a soft opening that was met with enthusiasm and anticipation.
A grand opening will be held in December 2023 and even more exciting prospects for this remarkable journey.
The first of many years
In 2023, Skyli Design celebrated its first year with a flourish of creativity and growth. The studio's doors swung open to a year marked by milestones and innovation. The launch of gold jewelry offerings expanded the artistic horizons, adding a new dimension of elegance to the collection. Amidst the glimmer of gold, the heart of the studio beat with the rhythm of custom orders, each one a testament to personal stories and unique visions.
As the year unfolded, Skyli Design underwent a transformative journey. The studio transitioned from a humble home setup to a vibrant downtown shop location, inviting patrons into a world of artisanal craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Within the walls of the new studio, countless hours were devoted to casting and creating one-of-a-kind pieces, each bearing the signature touch of Skyli Design's artistry.
Amidst the creative whirlwind, significant milestones were achieved. The studio proudly crafted its first 18 yellow gold piece, embodying the essence of luxury and refinement. Additionally, the completion of the first gold engagement ring marked a poignant moment, symbolizing love and commitment in its purest form. As Skyli Design embarked on its journey, each moment served as a testament to passion, dedication, and the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.
Skyli's Jewelry Evolution
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2019
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2020
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2021
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2022
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2023
