Dana is the visionary behind Mary Alice Silver, she upcycles silverware into jewelry that feels both vintage and modern.
"I have always loved beautiful things and trying to make the. I have sewn since childhood and I have made everything you can think of; I also embroider, make beaded jewelry, put song lyrics on t-shirts, do papercraft and make lip balm. I enjoy going to art fairs and recently realized that making a cool product and having a booth somewhere was my dream job. I found silverware jewelry and here I am, with my dream come true."
Why did you choose to partner with Yello Door to sell your artwork?
Yellow Door has such varied, high-quality work and lovely displays, and of course it showcases Michigan artists and is in the adorable city of Berkley.
How long have you been creating your artwork?
I have been making silverware jewelry for less than a year, I started during the pandemic. I learned to make beaded jewelry many years ago but stopped when I had kids.
What makes your artwork unique or distinctive?
There are many silverware artists out there but my work tends to have simpler lines. I also embrace the scratches, dents, worn spots, and tarnish as a part of the beauty of the piece it helps tell a story. I don't tumble my pieces or polish them too much.
What inspired your to start creating your artwork and how did you turn it into a business?
I was inspired by the beautiful family silverware that I inherited after my grandmother passed away. I got a lot of positive feedback on it from friends and through the magic of social media, I was able to set up a shop online.
What do you most love about the creative process?
I love that feeling when an idea pops into my head and I can't wait to go and execute it.
What do you least love about the business side of creating and selling art?
It's so new that I find it all fun and exciting but I don't love packing up and mailing products.
What do you enjoy doing besides making art?
I like to hang out with my family, cook, run, garden and sew.
What are some of your favorite reads?
I love to read fiction, I particularly enjoy John Irving and Margaret Atwood.
Quotes you love or live by:
What I am is what I am and I does what I does - Fiona Apple
You can find more from Dana and Mary Alice Silver online HERE or at Yellow Door Art Market.
Comments