Artist
As a jewelry artist and metalsmith my goal is to create works that are an extension of my inner self and emotions and resonates with others. Jewelry is intimate and needs to satisfy the sense of touch with pleasing textures and delight the eye with elegant lines, shapes and color. For me, my materials choose how they are going to be shaped, I tend to design as I work. The tactile nature of the metals, gems and materials can take on a life of their own and help guide me through the creative process. Living in the Southwest I am inspired by nature, as well as, the ancient designs of those who lived here long before our modern society. The elegance of simplicity and the organic nature of matching metal and gem is an ongoing quest.
I am a self-taught jewelry artist, although I have been mentored by renowned artists, such as, Lexi Erickson. My website based business is here at Katalina Design, (www.katalinadesign.com) I started it because I was inspired by the confidence and interest in my work by my teachers and friends.
I use mixed materials including polymer clay, seed beading, other beading techniques, stones, cold connections, wire working and soldering. I enjoy combining techniques to create unique pieces. I enjoy learning. I draw my ideas from natural surroundings in the Arizona desert and my Midwestern upbringing. Living just a mile from the breathtaking Colorado River, surrounded by mountains, desert and the Southwest culture feeds my creativity.
My philosophy: From sparkling, glittery beads and stones, scraps of clay, metals and random objects, marvelous, engaging jewelry treasures emerge, each piece lovingly handcrafted. Therein lies the charm; the gift, the surprise to the eye, there is a hint of detail yet to be discovered because each item is unique.
Katalina Klein
Achievements
Twice Featured Artist of the Day - Jewelspan Facebook
Featured Artist Interview - Jewelspan
http://www.jewelspan.com/articles/content/Katalina%20Klein:%20Featured%20Jewelspan%20Jeweler#.UjtWPcu9KK1
Featured Artist of the Month - Jewelspan
Havasu Artist Guild Member
Havasu Artist Guild Webmaster
Published tutorials at Wubbers University
Certified Instructor at Wubbers University