Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia Dolan.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I have been designing and making my own jewelry for as long as I can remember. Like many kids, I spent a lot of my free time doing arts and crafts, and could often be found stringing beads and knotting lanyards and friendship bracelets. Unlike most kids though, I have an amazing Aunt who has been a talented jewelry artist and metalsmith for over 30 years. When my sister and I were young we would go to her house and peruse her vast bead collection, then gather around the dining room table to craft the perfect necklaces.
As we got older she taught us more advanced techniques such as wire wrapping and silversmithing. Her introduction to the art and a love of making things with my hands resulted in years of crafting handmade jewels for my friends, family, and myself. In 2016 I graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in Natural Resources Conservation, and had found myself with several months of free time before I began my full-time job. With encouragement from my friends and family I decided that this was the perfect time to begin selling my jewelry, and Spicy Stone was born!
Please tell us about your art.
I create one of a kind gemstone jewelry, heavily inspired by the beauty and colors of the natural world. Many of my designs incorporate stones or sea glass that I have found while strolling the beach or hiking a mountain. At the end of the day, I hope that my jewelry simply resonates with clients, not only because it’s beautiful, but because it is handcrafted from scratch. I believe that in a world full of mass-produced fast fashion, it’s special to own something that you know was made with a lot of love.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
I think that conditions for artists are pretty awesome right now. With social media we are able to share our work like never before. Boston also has an incredible artist and art market community. There are opportunities to share and sell work in nearly every neighborhood and all year long. This city is also full of cool people who go out every weekend and attend these markets and events. Without them art and artists couldn’t thrive, so thank you!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can shop my jewelry collection online or view my gallery at spicystonejewelry.com, and be sure to follow along on Instagram and Facebook for news, giveaways, and to see my latest designs – @spicystone.
Contact Info:
- Website: spicystonejewelry.com
- Email: spicystonejewelry@gmail.com
- Instagram: @spicystone
- Facebook: @spicystone
Image Credit:
Noelle Dolan, Kam Bumpus
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
