Hello, fellow artisans! I am a jewelry designer and metalsmith working primarily with glass, semi and precious beads, gf wire, and sterling and fine silver (cold work, soldered and fused techniques). I started with an intrest as a child in beadwork and continued this as a hobby into adulthood. I started studying and working in earnest about 3 years ago. In addition to self teaching beading, wire and chainmaking techniques, I have studied metalsmithing with Iris Sandkuhler of Sandkuhler Studio. Early next year I will begin studies at the Revere Academy here in San Francisco. I love this medium because of it's limitless approaches and possibilities! The fine silver fusing is particularly fun because of the lack of chemicals. I have a BFA from Northern Arizona University and worked as a graphic designer for many years. After that venue became mostly computerized, I realized that I missed working with my hands and wanted a more hands-on, fine art field in which I could express myself. My toughest challenge is finding time...with a teenager, a child in elementary school and 2 businesses, I wind up working into the night when I feel that 'I absolutely HAVE to work today' feeling! Adornment is such a wonderful thing...it lifts spirits and allows others to see a little of what you are like on the inside! I love glass and some of my glass beads are worth much more than the rubbies, emeralds and sapphires that I own. I also love the small scale (although this finding of my life's favorite work has unfortunately coincided with my eyes changing!!). I am really looking forward to being a part of Orchid...one of my favorite things about jewelry design and metalsmithing is that there is always something new to learn and different ways of looking at things. I feel it is an exciting time for this industry and a very creative time for the people who make such beautiful work! Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your world! Nanette Kroupa; http://nankdesigns.com nan k. Designs