Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Kolb.
Michelle, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I have been in love with jewelry since I could say “OOOOH, shiny!” I started with beading at the age of 10. Fast forward to 1983. I attended Hartwick College, met my future husband and earned a degree in Psychology. We moved to Mont Vernon, NH in 1996 and began the task of raising our wonderful son, Eric (had to get that plug in somewhere!). Several years later I joined the Mont Vernon Artisans where I met my friend and mentor, Karen Mitchell, a talented jeweler and juried member of the League of NH Craftsmen. Karen graciously shared her knowledge of metal work and created a monster. I juried into the League of NH Craftsmen in 2014 and am now working for myself as a full-time jeweler.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I make sterling silver and gemstone jewelry. My jewelry is an exploration of the infinite variety of shapes, colors, and textures found in the precious and semi-precious stones used in my designs. Much of my work is one-of-a-kind, so my customers always have the opportunity to choose a piece that is unique and special. I choose my stones carefully…I’m a huge rock hound!
Do current events, local or global, affect your work and what you are focused on?
Definitely! Art exists to elicit a response, whether it be joy, sadness, empathy and yes, sometimes outrage. It expresses as well as elicits feelings about interpersonal relationships, the political climate, the human condition. It can be an amazing avenue of expression for adults and children alike…especially for those who have difficulty finding the words to convey needs and emotions.
As far as economics are concerned, hand-crafted art is more costly. Time, love and sometimes a little blood goes into everything that we create. Artists are definitely affected by the health of our monetary system or concerns about current events, but art patrons will always return for that special piece that brings something good into their lives.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
League of NH Craftsmen NH galleries in Nashua, Meredith, Hooksett, Hanover, Littleton, and North Conway (coming in September)
Tates Gallery in New Boston, NH
Acopio in Goffstown, NH
Capitol Arts Fest
South Main Street in front of the League of NH Craftsment HQ
49 South Main Street, Concord, NH
Sept 28 – 30
Great New England Fall Craft and Artisan Show
The Hampshire Dome
34 Emerson Rd., Milford, NH
Oct 20 – 10:00-5:00
Oct 21 – 9:00 – 3:00
Mont Vernon Artisans Annual Show
Town Hall and Fire Station
Rt 13/Main Street, Mont Vernon, NH
November – 3 & 4
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michellekolb.com
- Email: jewelry@MichelleKolb.com
Image Credit:
Douglas Kolb
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.
