The Power of Community

September 08, 2021

The Power of Community

The preparation was familiar. I shifted into high gear and got absorbed in my work. I created new designs and enhanced studio favorites to get ready for the first fine craft fairs in two years. I checked inventory and then checked it again. I took stock of all the parts and pieces I’d need for my booth. Jewelry cases, check. Curtains and zip ties, check. Business cards, check...

When I arrived at the show site, I went through the familiar gyrations of getting the rods and curtains set up and somewhat square. I leveled the tables, filled the jewelry cases. Then, I felt it. The crowds came and the tent was abuzz with excitement. Both familiar and new faces appeared at my booth and I embraced the positive energy and the warm rush of community.

It’s essential for me to see how you react to and respond to my art, to learn what kind of jewelry resonates with you and ultimately puts a smile on your face. To see your face brighten when you try on a necklace or a pair of earrings or feel the weight of a bangle on your wrist adds meaning, gives me purpose, and inspires me.

So, thank you for that, for your support for my business, your love of fine handcrafted jewelry, and for the inspiration and ideas you give me to continue honing my craft.

BTW, speaking of shows, it looks like a beautiful weekend for the Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival. If you’re near Wells, Maine, stop by and say hello. I'll have a fresh batch of Zoe Rings, Tiny Bead Necklaces, newly wrapped Beach Stones, and more.

Stay well,

Karen Eisenberg






Also in The Soldering Bench

Summer! You know what that means...
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The world of fine craft really comes alive in summertime. Craft fair season begins and we artists come out of our studios to hit the road to and share our craft in person. I’m gearing up for a busy summer season and look forward to catching up with everyone at a craft fair near you.

I'm bringing my jewelry to the Mount Washington Valley Farmers Market on June 28th at the North Conway Community Center, and then it’s on to Art in the Park in Petoskey, Michigan, July 16, and then the League of NH Craftmen’s Annual Fair at Mount Sunapee Resort in August. I’ve updated my events page so you can follow along and find me.

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Well, it’s not exactly a bow…but I like to think of my Beach Stone Pendants as pre-wrapped gifts, with the shiny silver ribbon hugging the stone so you can keep it close to your heart.

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The limited-edition Flow series of pendants grew from the summer flurry of activity. These one-of-a-kind pieces combine my signature leaf texture, favorite metalsmithing techniques—enhanced by Keum-Boo—and beautiful gemstones, and they are now in the shop. Visit my website for new work, one-of-a-kind pieces and, of course, customer favorites.

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