Kathy Fields Jewelry began 20 years ago after moving from South America to the United States.
“I taught myself how to mix stones and metals to form different jewelry creations. I use a variety of Peruvian stones and shells, and mixed materials: silver, copper, brass, leather, and fiber. My designs are composed of complex techniques and components, such as precious metal clay, wire-wrapping, and macrame. I live and work mostly in the St. Louis area, but also display and sell my jewelry designs at art fairs and galleries throughout the midwest. “
What does a typical day look like for you as a jewelry designer?
Kathy: I am constantly thinking of new pieces throughout my days that I am not working at an art fair. I put in about 4-5 hours a day designing and creating pieces. I think of a design, draw out what I hope to create, pick out each component that will go into that piece, and start making it. It is a very long process from start to finish, but I love getting to use my imagination to create a jewelry piece that costumers would like to see at an art fair.
What are your favorite materials to work with?
Kathy: Copper and fiber threads are my favorite materials to work with. These specific two materials always seem to look great with the natural stones I use.
What challenges have you faced in your creative work?
Kathy: The biggest challenge is being the only creator of my designs. I go to shows hoping I will have enough variety of pieces, but many times a customer may want to see another kind of design, or shade of a stone, that I may not have with me at the moment.
What inspires your creativity when making a new piece of jewelry?
Kathy: My biggest inspiration is my Spanish heritage. Peru is rich in its vibrant colors, unique art, and landscapes of the coast, highland, and jungle. I gravitate towards these aspects and incorporate them into my jewelry pieces.
If you can choose, what’s your favorite piece of jewelry art that you’ve ever made and why?
Kathy: This is such a hard question because I love all my jewelry pieces. My favorite piece is the hand charm necklace because of the symbolism behind it. The hand represents me working as a jewelry artist and the stones represent my country. The hand links my birthplace of Peru to now my home in the United States.
How has your art evolved over the years?
Kathy: I’ve been making jewelry art pieces for over 15 years and I have seen a lot of change in my work over the years. At the beginning my pieces were very simple, and now since I’ve gained many skills through classes and self-teaching, I create intricate pieces adding more components now than I ever have.
You sell a lot of your work all over the globe. What have you found to be the best way of getting your art noticed by buyers?
Kathy: Participating in a variety of art fairs is the best way I’ve gotten my name known and art noticed by customers around the U.S. I also keep my social media accounts of Instagram and Facebook updated, as well as I sell many pieces through my Etsy shop.
What advice would you have for aspiring jewelry designers?
Kathy: Keep the focus on your designs and your creativity. As long as you stay persistent and work hard, your art will flourish and take off.
To find out more about Kathy and her jewelry please check her:
Etsy shop
I have a collection of Kathy’s work, which are pieces of art.
Her jewelry is vibrant, unique and exceptionally well made!
Amazing getting to see your work progress over the years. They are all truly beautiful and unique pieces. It is so special that you stay true to your Peruvian roots in your work!
I have been buying Kathy’s jewelry for over 15 years. I love her work. I always get compliments on her pieces. She adds new styles and designs each year that I’m always wanting something new to add to my collection. Her work is unique and amazing.
I love Kathys jewelry because it is unique. Has vibrant colors and seem to be made for each person’s personality.
so proud to meet such a talented and dedicated artist. Exquisite taste to choose each piece, perfect combination of beautiful colors and accessories, I love it 😍💕
Kathy is such a creative soul and I love how it is exemplified through her pieces. Each piece is very unique with the variation of stone patterns and materials. All the jewelry is vibrant and radiant in its natural stones from Peru. You can’t find this one-of-kinda jewelry anywhere!
I first saw Kathy’s work at an Art Fiesta in New Smyrna Beach, FL. Her talent working with beautiful stones and materials is amazing. Each piece is done with such thought and love of the wonderful colors she uses so wearing her work makes me very happy! I hope to have many more to add in the future.
Your work shows your dedication to your craft. The fine detail in your jewelry stands out. Your unique designs brings part of Peru to your customers. Wonderful designs and work. Very proud of you.
When I first saw Kathy’s work it just felt right. It has an earthy vibe yet feels sophisticated. Her pieces go with everything and are the perfect way to complete an elevated look. An added bonus? Kathy is as vibrant and fun as the work she creates.