WOMAN WEDNESDAY
Today we have another one of our super talented silver smiths Julie who owns @silversmithspirit
It’s hard to believe looking at her beautiful creations that Julie only recently learnt how to make jewelry! She has always been crafty, dabbling in macrame, weaving, electroforming, and many other things but only a few short months ago started working on silversmithing with semi precious gems.
Losing her job from covid and being stuck inside during lockdown is where she discovered her hidden talents for jewelry making, and after a lot of trial and error and you tube tutorials she quickly learnt how to create some really beautiful pieces! Truly“The silver lining” to the lockdown! No pun intended 😅 we are so obsessed with everything she’s been making! Come check them out at Velvet or check out her page to keep tabs on all her newest creations! ✨✨✨
Here’s our chat with her ..
1. Where’d you grow up and where do you live now?
I grew up in a small-town north of Montreal city and later made the move to the
city center for university. At that time the energy of the city matched my fast
paced lifestyle. I moved to Chamonix for an internship to complete my degree
and during my time in the French Alps I fell in love with the mountain lifestyle.
Returning from France I now knew that the city life wasn’t for me, the mountains
were calling, and I decided to head for the West Coast. I am now truly blessed to
call Whistler my home.
2. What is your definition of strength?
Personally, my definition strength is far from its dictionary meaning and what I
was taught growing up. I believe being in touch with your emotions and being
able express yourself is a sign of strength and confidence. It’s a huge challenge
in today’s world to love yourself and what you do, this is something I’m sure we
can all work on.
3. What is something that’s important to you now that never used to be?
I have always cared about our beautiful planet, but recently it’s something I’ve
given more attention to. I love to recycle and upcycle, buy second hand, support
local producers and buy from small businesses. Reading labels and researching
origins can sometimes be unpleasantly surprising, something I recommend you
all to do.
4. How would you describe your style?
I really like vintage designs, bohemian styles and gypsy flairs. I guess you could
say a little bit of everything. Something I think is beginning to be reflected in my
jewellery as my skills grow and interest deepens.
5. Favourite food to cook at home?
Honestly, I am not the best cook. At home my partner cooks most of the time, but
I love cooking a good hearty stew, soup or curry, especially during the fall
months. Nothing like a flavourful, warm and nutritious meal to comfort you.
6. What’re 3 books on your bookshelf?
- Rocks and Gems by Ra Bonewitz. My current encyclopedia.
- Exploring the Coast Mountains on Skis by John Baldwin. A must have for
anyone looking to get into the beautiful backcountry.
- La Vérité sur l’Affaire Harry Quebert. A French crime novel that I have been
working on for the past few years….
7. What’s something you want to accomplish in the next year?
Growing my business and establishing myself in the market scene. It’s been a
tough year for markets and events but in the future I would love to be a bigger
part in the local market scene so I can show my art to more people and continue
to share my passion.
8. Tell us something people would find surprising about you:
I am very clumsy, but when it comes to making my jewellery I become very
careful and meticulous.
9. Favourite movie?
I’m all about horror movies! My latest favourite is Pet Sematary, I don’t easily
scare but this one got to me good.
10. How do you want people to remember you?
Kind and caring, a friend to everyone. Someone who lives an active and
respectful lifestyle, who cares for everyone and everything in their environment,
something I am working towards.