"metal + matter - a jewelry invitational" is a celebration of modern jewelry makers and an homage to our roots. Over the next 6 weeks, we'll get to know one of our featured artists through their own words and images.
The second line in our interview series is with Barbara Magana Perez of la objeteria. We're loving her Dibujoya (drawing) collection as a fresh take on gemstones and her tiny, smile inducing birds - Mr. Tweet Tweet.
How would you describe what you make?
la .objeteria jewelry is a place where you can find little personal objects that help you express yourself, celebrate the milestones and special moments in your life and most of all make you happy. All these pieces are feminine and playful, and when you get something from la .objeteria jewelry I hope you cherish it forever and becomes an heirloom.
What drew you to this medium and style of work?
Since I was a little girl I have spent countless hours circling objects, trying to figure out their essence. I knew I wanted to grow up to be the one that made them and many years later I became an Industrial Designer. I now was able to design and fabricate objects but something was missing. I eventually found in jewelry a combination of everything that appealed to me: love of design, the intricacy of the little details, artistry and the chance to impress passion upon an inanimate object.
I think the whimsical is part of my life, I love anything and everything sweet, cute and kawaii so I like to think that permeates into my style of work. I live to make happy little objects for you.
Can you tell us about your favorite piece in the current collection?
My eternal love will always be Mr. Tweet Tweet, It doesn't matter how many times I come back to him, he always reminds me of what I love about making jewelry. But lately I have been enjoying working with the diamond shapes a lot, after all diamonds are said to be a girl's best friend.
If you could collaborate with anyone (living or not), who would it be and why?
Mary Blair (Disney Artist, Animator, Designer), her work just makes my heart sing with colors, shapes and joy. I believe we could be amazing friends traveling the world and translating everything into lovely designs that celebrate the everyday.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
“In regards to work, the only one that matters is the one you actually get done”. I am an overthinker and perfectionist so sometimes taking out an idea out of my head into the world takes forever, so I guess a little less conversation and a little more action will do the trick.
Can you describe your favorite part of the process in your work?
I love the research part! Reading, browsing the internet, looking at my travel photos or just sitting somewhere with my studio sidekick (aka Pomerina, my dog) curled up on my lap while I draw makes me so happy. But of course also when everything is neatly packed and shiny and ready to go is just so amazing, to feel like someone is going to love something I made forever… yes, that is a favorite too.
When you are in the studio, what are you listening to?
Lots and lots of business/creative endeavors podcasts when I am making something repetitive (like fulfilling orders) or good music when I need to concentrate and design or make something completely new. My favorite podcasts are: Thrive by Design, The Merriweather Council, Perceived Value, Retail Shift and I held onto every single episode for the extinct Good Company. Music? Anything soundtrack is my jam, but lately lots and lots of Broadway.
What is your most treasured handmade possession?
A little blanket my mom knitted for me when I was a baby, I ́ve patched it a thousand times over the years and it's almost disappearing already but the fact that she made it for me when she found out I was coming into her life sparks all the joy in the world for me. I am lucky my husband doesn't care to share it because I don't think I could… it's all mine!
