Noble Artist Series: Sheena Marshall Jewelry
Meet Denver based jeweler & metalsmith artist, Sheena of @sheenamarshalljewerly— known for her timeless & minimal jewelry and sustainable practices.
Today on the blog, we chat with Sheena about her niche craft and how her own ethical principles became a foundation for her business today:
Tell us a little bit about your story & how you started practicing the art of metalsmithing: From an early age, I was immersed in creativity thanks to my family. My dad, an engineer, and I crafted the most intricate school projects. My mother's artistic talent lay in creating nature-inspired oil paintings. I was even taught the art of stained glass by my grandpa.
Sheena wearing our Ash Utility Suit in a size Small.How does your personal passion for sustainability bleed into this art? Did you find it difficult to shift these values into your business as well? All of my choices for the company are based on my beliefs and reflect who I am as an individual. By considering if each decision is in accordance with my values, the decision-making process is much simpler. The core values include:
- Timeless Designs - prioritizing designs that are classic and enduring, rather than chasing fleeting fast fashion trends.
- Quality Craftmanship – metalsmithing using high-quality recycled solid gold, gold fill, and sterling silver.
- Sustainability – I work meticulously to figure out exact measurements to ensure there are minimal scraps left over. When enough scraps are collected, they are sent back to the supplier for them to be recycled properly and reused.
Does your minimal and timeless jewelry reflect your own personal style at all? My approach to style is mirrored in the minimal and timeless jewelry I choose to invest in. Rather than selecting pieces based on fleeting trends, I opt for items from small batch, sustainable brands that will endure. This means I can wear the same pieces for work, play and beyond - always being sure to choose pieces that will remain staples in my wardrobe over time.
When you aren't working in your studio, what are some of your favorite ways to stay connected to your creativity? Outside of working in my studio, I take delight in finding creative ways to stay connected. As an avid learner, I take every opportunity to get to know my customers in person at local markets. Additionally, I love meeting up with other small business owners at coffee shops to discuss business decisions. But when I'm not focused on work, I spend quality time with my family, exploring all the museums Denver has to offer. All these activities ultimately fuel my creativity.
What have you been reading or listening to lately that has you feeling inspired? Recently, I have been learning about stone setting with great enthusiasm. This was something I was interested in from the start, so I am taking this opportunity to practice the methods and find sustainable sources for diamonds for upcoming gold pieces. I'm excited to explore this path for my business and get to work on all the design ideas I have been brewing up! Keep an eye out!
FOLLOW SHEENA HERE: WEBSITE & INSTAGRAM
Jumpsuit Photos & Jewelry: EB Combs of The Whistler & The Well
Studio work: Joslyn Griffin of One Lady Studio