In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Visit with renowned jewelry artist, author, and teacher Loretta Lam. Loretta shares her inspiring journey— from her early love of jewelry making to discovering polymer clay, which transformed her career. With over 25 years in the art industry, Loretta opens up about her experience building a successful jewelry business, the challenges and joys of writing her book Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design (Schiffer Publishing), and her passion for teaching design principles to help other makers find their artistic voice.

Design is universal and applies to all creative endeavors

Whether you’re an aspiring maker or an established artist, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and the wisdom of someone who has spent decades perfecting their craft.

Links to help you find Loretta:

Key Episode Takeaways

  • Loretta’s Early Years: Learn about Loretta’s childhood fascination with jewelry making, starting with stringing buttons from her mother’s button box, and how she eventually pursued a formal education in jewelry at SUNY New Paltz.

  • Discovering Polymer Clay: Loretta shares the transformative moment when she discovered polymer clay in the 90s and how it became the foundation of her artistic career.

  • Building a Business: From local art shows to major craft fairs, Loretta discusses the practical challenges of turning her craft into a sustainable business, highlighting the importance of multiple income streams.

  • Teaching and Mentorship: Loretta found a passion for teaching, guiding students through their creative journeys, and helping them develop their own voice.

  • Writing Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design: The long road to publishing her design-focused book, including the eight years it took to convince a publisher of the need for a book on jewelry design.

  • The Pandemic Shift: How COVID-19 forced Loretta to transition her in-person teaching to online platforms, reaching a global audience and allowing her to focus on design rather than technique.

  • Art as a Lifelong Journey: Loretta reflects on the personal and emotional aspects of art-making, encouraging makers to embrace their unique creative paths.

A Dark and Stormy Night necklace; polymer; by Loretta Lam
Cairn Series Spears Necklace; polymer and steel cable; by Loretta Lam
cover of Loretta Lam's book "Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design"
Medium Berry Violet; polymer beads, steel cable; by Loretta Lam

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

The Creative Journey Begins

02:50

Loretta Lamb: A Journey Through Art

06:12

Teaching and Mentorship in Jewelry Design

08:59

The Book Journey: From Idea to Publication

12:10

Adapting to Change: Online Teaching During COVID

15:03

The Importance of Design in Art

17:50

Understanding the Elements of Design

21:14

Finding Your Voice as an Artist

24:06

The Value of Community in Art

26:57

Reflections on the Artistic Journey

29:39

Embracing Authenticity in Art

32:30

The Journey of Creativity and Growth

36:56

Overcoming Creative Blocks and Fears

39:51

The Psychological Benefits of Creating

42:17

Learning Through Failure and Exploration

45:35

Finding Your Unique Artistic Voice

48:55

Purposeful Learning in Art

51:45

Balancing Production and Creativity

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