Meet Jackalope Phoenix Vendors, Barclay & Co.  - creators of Spine Wallet.

How would you describe your style?  
I would say our style is sleek, modern and minimalist. We use titanium because it is strong and light.

Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
I look up to my brother, Caleb Barclay. He is an entrepreneur and designer with a passion for making Arizona great.

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 
We started a little over a year ago and at that point we had most of our process done outside. At this point I am happy to say we have brought almost all of it in house, including the deburring, anodizing, lasering, and blasting. We are able to offer custom pieces at reasonable costs.

What is your creative process like?
My creative process involves a lot of failure. There is so much to learn when it comes to anodizing and lasering titanium. Typically it starts with some frustration and end with a result I am happy with(hopefully)

Where can we find out more about you?
www.barclayco.com

Shop Barclay & Co. at at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on April 16th & 17th at Steele Indian School Park!

Where does your inspiration come from?

    I'm inspired both by nature and myths, I love travel and adventures.  When working on paintings and art I try to integrate that experience of adventure or the unknown with touches of home and nature.  When sewing I create or choose textiles that reflect my experiences or ideas.  I create wearable art, I find things I enjoy and talk about them or integrate them into my pieces.  I guess I'm inspired most by everyday life, any my work is a reflection of the 'things' I find valuable.

When do you feel the most creative?

    I feel most creative when I'm creating. I usually need to be alone, sometimes with music, and then remind myself what inspires me, if there are recent images from a trip we took or thoughts I had while traveling, I look at my journals, research images and get to it.  I find that when I'm creating, I completely lose track of time and can stay up all night just drawing or sewing.  I think painting is my favorite which is why I paint each silk screen by hand instead of using photo emulsion techniques, it's what separates my tee shirt fonts apart from other designers.  Each and every shirt is screened with my bare hands and handwriting.  There is something magical about creating with our physical bodies, don't get me wrong digital has it's place too, but you can feel the love of something handmade. 

Where can we learn more about you?  

    I have my blog hawksandhoney.com  where you can find out more about my everyday life and projects, adventures and thoughts.  I'm all over the place, I like to keep busy and the blog is a space for me to document all things worth sharing. You can also find me overgramming on Instagram @jenniferlindschutsky.com where I post too many photos of my favorite people, places and things.

How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as refined rustic.  Meaningful, authentic and raw jewelry that embodies the handmade feel without being “rough." 

Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?          I can’t say that I look up to any one particular artist.  I’m moved by so many creative mediums.  Photography, ceramics, drawing, painting.  When the artist is good at eliciting raw emotion, I’m drawn in.  There is something incredibly inspiring about someone with that ability.

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?             There are definitely lots of handmade jewelers out there. What makes my work unique and my own, is that it comes from some unnamed place within.  I’m compelled to create from my own emotion with the intent to resonate with someone else who has that “me too” feeling when they see/read about one of my pieces.  Many of my pieces are connected to a sentiment or a story, and I do my best to share that when I present the piece.

What sort of things inspire you?                                                                 Is it too contrite to say that I’m inspired by life?  By living this messy, beautiful life?  I’m inspired by the rawness of it all.  The beauty of joy, love, happiness, sadness, visceral pain. 

Where do you look for inspiration?                                                              The landscape of my native home, Arizona.  The desert is the perfect embodiment of beauty with a raw edge.  Like a captivating cactus washed in the the glow of the unrelenting sun and peppered with thorns sharp enough to draw blood should one get too close. The juxtaposition of the desert’s prickly beauty and unforgiving way.  It’s as if she says “Here I am.  Beautiful exactly like this. Take me or leave me.”  That’s about what I strive to show in my creations.  “This is me…real, raw, unforgivingly as I am. Take me or leave me."

When do you feel the most creative?                                                         Creativity is a fickle thing.  It comes on in waves, and when it does, I simply have to hop on and ride.  I’d be a liar if I said there was any one time over another that has me feeling most creative. I suppose the one common factor is emotion.  Any time I’m flooded with emotion, is a time that the work tends to pour out.

What is your creative process like?                                                             My creative process, possibly in true creative form, is not streamlined at all. Sometimes it’s something someone says that sparks an idea, sometimes it’s the glow of the low hanging sun and the way it seems to drip over the mountains, and sometimes it’s just something crying from within, begging to be let loose. From there, I form the idea, make a mental note of the steps I’ll take, and then I just dive in.  I usually don’t sketch my designs first, and when I do, it’s more of a form of making a note than a “how to.”  Just a way to help me remember the idea.

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?                                 Hands down it was “You should always either be attracting or repelling. Be so much yourself, that you are attracting those who are drawn to what you do, and repelling those who aren’t”  It was almost like permission to let those who don’t matter go.  Let them not like me, and still be okay with that. Putting art out there is scary and opens one up to constant rejection.  That advice is the salve I use for those times when rejection stings a little too much.

Where can we learn more about you?                                                       I’d love for you to come check out my website: www.dancingdragonflystudio.com                  

my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/dancingdragonflystudio/                                  

and on Instgram: @dancingdragonflystudio

Meet Leah Kiser, of Artifact Fine Art.

I'm a figure painter of characters.  Satirical ideas and dark humor often inspire me, sort of like a cartoonist, but where I feel I differ is in my patience for details. I enjoy falling deep into the visual world to learn how things fit together realistically.

What sort of things inspire you? 

I find inspiration in everyday life.  Silly thoughts will often pop into my mind at inopportune moments and when they make me laugh out loud I start to think about how I can make that idea work on canvas (I have to admit -my kids are helpful in that part of the process). My ideas often seem childish, but the color and composition of my work has a more serious or mature feeling. 

Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?

I look at paintings by masters for inspiration on composition and color.  Gustav Klimt, Degas, Van Gogh, other impressionist figure painters are usually a good start for me. 

When do you feel the most creative?

I feel most creative when I'm alone. I paint in my garage and listen to sort of visceral music while I'm working -White Stripes, Bon Iver, El Ten Eleven, Adel, Postal Service. I like the way the music makes me feel.  It puts me into a creative and active frame of mind. 

I paint because it is therapeutic for me.  I am more of a listener and observer.  Words do not come easily for me, and when I make art I get to develop my ideas and understand the world from my humble perspective.  When I share my hard work with others, I learn that many people do appreciate my way of thinking and the hard work that I do. It helps me feel valid (thank you, fans).

You can learn more about me on my website artifactfa.com

Shop Artifact Fine Art at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on December 12th & 13th at Steele Indian School Park!

• What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own

My skull series was inspired by the Arizona desert and the popularity of cow skulls in home decor. I was searching for a means to combine the two in a creative way to hang in my own home and I think as it was something for myself initially, I became very invested in the creation of the series. The double exposures are unique because they are made in camera, not in photoshop, and the detail in the layered images is amazing. I'm also really happy with how unique each image looks printed on different materials - metallic paper, metal, wood and even fabric. 

• What sort of things inspire you?  

The desert and the southwest have been huge inspirations for me. I am fascinated by the light, colors, shapes, and textures found here. 

• Where do you look for inspiration?

I love to see others create in any medium: film, paint, metal, music, writing, etc... 

• When do you feel the most creative?

Most of my ideas come to me during a good run. I think most runners would tell you that! 

• What is your creative process like?

An idea usually takes time for me to develop fully and to execute completely. I often sketch what I have in mind, I make tons of lists, gather materials and scout locations, and then I just try out my ideas. There can be many test shoots before I find the right elements to create the image I had in mind originally.

• What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?

One of my photography teachers encouraged us to experiment and explore because you never know where one small idea might lead and how it may evolve. 

• Where can we learn more about you?  

My website: www.reaganalexander.ca also includes my documentary and family photography.

My Etsy shop: www.reaganalexanderphoto.etsy.com

and Instagram: @reaganalexanderphoto 

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?
Aside from my designs being simple but also statement making pieces, I use jewelry to promote a message of loving and accepting yourself. It's important to me that Adam Rabbit isn't just another handmade jewelry company. As AR has grown, I've been able to share more of my personal feelings as well as helping others start handmade businesses. My goal is for my message to translate through the designs and although I don't stamp, "You deserve to feel good today." on my packaging,  that's the general theme and energy I want to put out there in a subtle way. 

What sort of things inspire you?  Where do you look for inspiration?
I'm really inspired by nature and the feeling you get when you are unplugged from technology. Sometimes I feel like all of the wifi is frying my brain so it is nice to get outside and feel connected to something beautiful. I'm also a proud supporter of the treat yo' self movement! I use self-care as apart of my creative process to design jewelry from a place that is pure. 

When do you feel the most creative?
I definitely feel most creative in the morning. I love waking up between 4AM-5AM to just spend time in my craft room and see what ideas come before the stress of the daily grind begins. I also teach 6th grade special ed full time so my mornings are sacred to me. 

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?
I've received a lot of advice when I first started AR. Most of it was unsolicited and along the lines of jewelry being an over saturated market.  The best tip would have to come from one of my former students who has autism. One of the only sentences he would say is, "Never EVER give up!" (You have to scream the ever) He would say it at least 20 times a day whenever he had to do something he didn't want to which included walking in a line and getting up to sharpen his pencil. When I think about never EVER give up it brings a smile to my face. 

Where can we learn more about you? 
I really love the Instagram community! I post everything from new designs, daily woes of no longer being able to eat gluten, and pretty frequently gush over my boyfriend Joe. @adamrabbitjewelry

How would you describe your style?  Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?                                                                                                                                                     

I guess the best way to describe my style is a gypsy rockstar!   A bit of an edge with a free spirited gypsy vibe.  I love the freedom of expression and sharing in spreading positive energy and happiness to one another.  

We are all energy and the positivity of enjoying each moment is contagious. If I can help my customers focus on today and enjoy the little moments, then my job is done and my journey as a designer has purpose.  

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 

I feel my work is unique because of how the accessories make you feel!   Many times we buy accessories because we like them, which we all want of course.   But my accessories bring out something different in everyone. 

Countless times I get feedback from my customers that my cuff or bracelet makes them feel so “cool," even if they are very conservative and do not wear statement pieces or much jewelry at all.   Their vibe changes while wearing the jewelry and there is not a better gift than that as a designer.   

What sort of things inspire you?  Where do you look for inspiration?

I have to say I am truly inspired by color and textures. My process always begins with something raw that I see; a material, a stone, a piece of art or sculpture.  I then create incorporating how I feel and the message that I want to convey or inspire someone else to feel.  I went on a very personal journey about a year ago and through that very positive and enlightening path I designed my new lines Energie and Henergie. I definitely learned that when you are authentic and true to yourself as a designer, the designs and inspiration are one in the same.   

When do you feel the most creative?

I am actually most creative when I am sad or on crunch time…it is such an extreme difference I know.  But both actually do not allow too much time to think and I am forced to make decisions instead of the possibilities of change or direction.  When I am saddened or stressed, my mind shuts off and my feelings go into my designs, but I will not put the time into it as I would if I was happy thus not a need for change. When I am on crunch time I have to make the decisions and my mind chooses things and processes differently.   The need to not have the “Maybe” is extremely important in my creative process.  

What is your creative process like?

My creative process really begins with an idea and the medium I choose comes second. The design process determines the medium. I always say that there is something about an artist’s mind that allows us to see and create without barriers. There are challenges and we always find the solutions.

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?

The best tip I received was from a very successful man a long time ago.  He said "NEVER listen to someone else’s ideas or opinions!!   Stay true to yourself and your designs.”   We all have a message to share in all aspects of design including painting, sculpting, music or designing.   We create from our soul and it is an expression of who we are.    Others like to project opinions and unsolicited advice that can steer you in the wrong direction.   

If you stay uninfluenced by others and believe in your path, no matter how many No’s or negative feedback you receive, you will get where you are supposed to be.   Stay Positive and Stay True to yourself and the possibilities are endless.  

Where can we learn more about you?  

You can find out more about me on my website at www.melis.com

How would you describe your style?  
I'd say my style is a mixture of a few elements...a little bit modern, a little bit bohemian, and a little bit vintage.  

Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
There are so many to choose from!  I'm a big fan of Justina Blakeney, author of The Modern Bohemian and creator of The Jungalow.  I admire her sense of style and her love of mixing prints.  I feel like we'd be friends if we met :)

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 
I've always been the friend who gives handmade gifts for birthdays, weddings, special life events, etc.  And fortunately for me, my friends and family seem to love receiving these handmade gifts!  I just feel like there's more life and love attached to the gift, and it makes a person feel special when they receive it.  I think this is why I love doing custom apron orders.  I love finding prints that match a person's aesthetic and then creating a product that I know they'll love.

What sort of things inspire you? 
First and foremost my friends and family inspire me.  The support I get from them to continue creating my product is most inspiring.  Also, I've come to the realization that I am a fabric addict.  I am obsessed with textiles!  Finding prints and mixing and matching them makes my heart flutter!  That feeling inspires me.

Where do you look for inspiration?
I love shopping at the local vintage shops and finding quirky items that are rich with history.  I'm inspired every time I go to farmer's markets and flea markets.  It's so great to see all the talented vendors selling products that their hearts (and time) go into. There's just so much creativity out there!  

When do you feel the most creative?
It's strange to say, but I'm most creative when I've had the least amount of sleep!

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?
"Believe in your product and others will too." and "Your love for your product will be contagious."

Where can we learn more about you?
You can also find me on www.hotchickaprons.etsy.com
Instagram @hotchickaprons
Twitter @hotchickaprons
Facebook @hotchickaprons

Shop Hot Chick Aprons at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on December 12th & 13th at Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix AZ!

How would you describe your style?  
My particular style has always had a bohemian feel,  I love bright feel good colors and a variety of texture!  
 

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?  
I feel what makes my work unique is a combination of my designs and marketing.  I created the Giving Bracelets for a sole purpose, I wanted to create a sustainable business the continues to give back.  After launching a successful handbag company,  I spent some time volunteering for an organization that helps mentor children in the foster care system.  This experience had such an impact, I decided to create the Giving Bracelets and donate the proceeds to them.  

What sort of things inspire you?  
Traveling, culture, nature.   

When do you feel the most creative?
I feel most creative when my work space has no clutter and after having a cup of earl grey tea!

What is your creative process like?  
I design new styles twice a year, in the fall I’m thinking about Spring colors, styles and hardware and in the Spring I’m thinking about Fall colors, styles, and hardware.  

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?  
Design and create the things you love!

Where can we learn more about you?  
www.givingbracelets.com

Shop Giving Bracelets at the Phoenix Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on December 12th & 13th at Steele Indian School Park!

How would you describe your style?  Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
Clean and contemporary. Even though I run a confection company, the flavors are more interesting and adult so I like to have the packaging reflect that. 

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 
think my unique flavors make me stand out. The texture too! I tested a lot of recipes to find one that yields a soft caramel that melts in your mouth, rather than pulling out your fillings! People are always surprised at how soft they are, which makes me happy to have spent all that time worrying about it. I also seek out the best, most flavorful ingredients using local purveyors whenever possible. Colorado dairy, fresh spices and tea and hand-zested citrus all give me the brightest flavors possible.

What sort of things inspire you?  Where do you look for inspiration?
find the inspiration for my flavors from what I enjoy eating as well as what is available seasonally here in southern Colorado. The green chile caramel idea was planted when we received roasted chiles from Hatch, New Mexico in our CSA box last summer. I wondered what they’d taste like as a candy and started tinkering. The skins impart a lovely smoky flavor instead of just heat, which many people find surprising. I’m always on the search for the best horchata, so I thought, “Why don’t I just make it into a caramel?” It was tough to get the rice flavor to come through, but I think I finally succeeded. You’ll have to try them and let me know what you think!

What is your creative process like?
As a pastry chef, it’s all about precision and recipe testing. Once I have a new idea for a candy, I need to try it out in — tiny — batches to see if the flavor I’m trying to get across comes through. (This is definitely my husband’s favorite part!) I take copious notes about the weights of ingredients and any adjustments I make because I never remember what I did although I’m sure that I will at the time. After the recipe is dialed in, I pack the caramels in bags and let them sit at room temperature for 3-6 months to be sure the flavor and texture remain the same. I need to ensure that my customers will have the same experience regardless of when they purchase my confections. After all that, I’m finally ready to launch a new item!

Where can we learn more about you?  
Please visit my website at www.peakcandy.com. In addition to learning more about me, you can see our current list of flavor offerings and find outlets where you can buy them.

Keep an eye on my site in November; I’ll be rolling out a cashew curry and classic peanut brittle just in time for the holidays. I’ll also offer the caramels in a smaller, 3-count bag, so you don’t have to choose between a few of the flavors you’re pondering!

Shop Peak Candy Company at the Denver Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on November 14th & 15th!