SNAG is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019 and is honoring its membership by highlighting different artists on the SNAG website.
Please introduce yourself.
My name is Corkie Bolton and I first started creating jewelry at Ossining High School back in 2002. I fell in love and went on to major in Jewelry Making at Pratt Institute. I love working in silver and gold because you can create an heirloom quality piece that can last for generations. I am also the founder of Metalsmith Society, an Instagram community where jewelers and hobbyists can ask questions, share information and learn.
What are some goals that you have while creating your work? Are there any concepts that you are particularly interested in?
I have always enjoyed learning new fabrication techniques and improving my skills, so I explore many different methods in my work. The desire to improve a skill set, like a specific stone setting can inspire an entire collection.
What does your work mean to you? Why create these objects?
I’ve always felt that urge to create things since I was young, if I’m not creating jewelry I’m knitting or sewing or building a block tower with my kids. To be able to create jewelry that people spend their hard earned money on and make a part of their everyday life is truly an honor and fills me with pride. However even if I never sold a piece, I’d still have to make things because of how happy the process makes me.
How has the field of metalsmithing and jewelry evolved since you began your career?
Back in 2007 when I graduated from Pratt the economy took a huge hit, I began to see the era of jewelers selling wholesale to tons of retailers die down. Social media became huge and and at the same time more and more brick and mortars sadly closed. Many jewelers now rely on a direct-to-customer business model. Selling to customers directly from my Instagram account @corkieboltonjewelry is my primary source of sales.
What are your plans for the future? Is there anything specific that you hope to accomplish in the next year?
In 2019 I took an engraving course at GRS Training Center with Sam Alfano, so I’m excited to practice these new skills and see how my work will evolve. My goal for 2020 is to produce small collections every other month comprised of 3-10 one-of-a-kinds. These collections will allow me to focus on a specific idea or technique.
How and when did first gain a membership with SNAG?
November 2019! I am excited to be a SNAG member and hope to attend the conference one day!
To learn more about Corkie and her work, visit www.corkieboltonjewelry.com
