Monday, April 14, 2008

Demimonde by Rachael Donaldson


Rachael Donaldson, Portland Oregon, USA
Brand name: Demimonde
Shop: demimondejewelry.etsy.com
Seaplane and Idom... both in Portland

I first discovered Rachael's work while putting together the Fierce in Feathers editorial piece. I totally dig her style - her pieces have so much strength and movement! By the way, Demimonde (French for "half-world") is the polite 19th century term often used the same way we use the term "mistress" today.

I find that trying to force through any creative hold ups only frustrates me more, if I can't muster the creative energy for anything I do, I embrace my need for the time off.




1. What do you call yourself? (e.g., Independent designer, crafter, maker, artist) I call myself an artist. I have a Fine Arts Degree: I paint, make assemblages, and dabble in ceramics.

For me jewelry making is like small scale sculpture.


I work 30 hours a week making cocktails to pay the bills. But the rest of the time I work towards combining all my creative outlets into one gorgeous empire so I can someday call that my full time job.

2. What inspires you? How do you get past crafter's block? Inspiration comes from everywhere, for my painting I am inspired by industrial decay, rust and water stains and old paint chipping off walls. For my jewelry, inspiration comes from unlikely places... like a Calder mobile or an old leather skirt.

Whenever I feel like I have lost my inspiration I redirect my energy into another project, like putting down the paint brush and picking up some beads or some clay. I find that trying to force through any creative hold ups only frustrates me more, if I can't muster the creative energy for anything I do, I embrace my need for the time off.

3. What tool(s) can't you live without? I can't live without the Goodwill bins. It's a clearing house for all their donations and everything, from clothing to books and housewares, is sold by the pound. I find materials, inspiration and great stuff to sell or give to my friends. My best find was a large antique silk weaving from Japan, it's in my bedroom.

4. Who is your idol, current craft-crush? I can't answer this by naming just one person. I am so lucky to be surrounded by a community of talented friends that are making their living from their art. I am really inspired and blessed by this community of exceptional artisans. Trish Grantham, Amy Ruppel, Kate Towers, Holly Stalder...just to name a few.

5. How long have you been doing this? A little over two years ago, Kathyrn Towers and Holly Stalder, who own Seaplane asked if I knew anyone who made jewelry because they needed more for their shop, I said I would give it a try and here I am...

6. Where did you learn your craft? I am self taught. I got some wire wrapping tips from Holly and I just started learning from there. I am going to be taking my first jewelry class this summer, a basic Metal Smithing course.

7. Do you do this full-time? If not, what pays the bills? I work 30 hours a week making cocktails to pay the bills. But the rest of the time I work towards combining all my creative outlets into one gorgeous empire so I can someday call that my full time job. Painting, Jewelry and selling my really bad vintage shopping habit on Etsy.


8. How would you describe your style? I love modernist craft, pottery and pattern design from the late 50's. I also love Native American craft, the patterns in blanket design, pottery and baskets. In my house it's sort of a blend of ethnic and mid century modern. As for my jewelry style, I think it's eclectic and evolving, so it's a little hard to pin down. Now that I have an Etsy shop, I think I can get a little more adventurous with my designs.

Thanks Rachael!

2 comments:

Melissa de la Fuente said...

I really enjoyed this interview, I just love the random facts sections(I know I have said this a couple of times before, sorry! :) and I really enjoyed Rachael's descriptions of her family and her inspirations!!
Now, off to check out her shop!
xo
Melissa

Marichelle said...

Hey Melissa, thank you! I really appreciate your feedback!!