Conversations with Dorie Kerr

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dorie Kerr

Dorie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My career as a jewelry artist began 18 years ago but is rooted in my lifelong love of minerals and gemstones. I am self-taught and learned mostly through experimentation and a desire to figure out how things work. I started out with a few strands of beads and some basic tools, making pieces for myself and as gifts. But a growing interest in my work led to my first trunk show at a friend’s house and has evolved into a studio business with a busy show schedule. I work with gemstones, metal, and fiber, creating intricate, timeless pieces.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I’d have to say that the biggest challenge has been balancing work with family. My creative process requires uninterrupted stretches of time and focus, which were, at the start, hard to achieve with the competing needs of small children. It could be incredibly frustrating to be deeply immersed in a project only to be torn away by a pressing obligation. Fortunately, I have a partner in life who has always been incredibly supportive, understanding and encouraging. He has been my biggest fan.

In addition, sometimes it is difficult to see myself as an artist and value my work as such. But the drive to create, the support of my artist community and the validation from my customers are both affirming and inspiring.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work with silver, gold, gemstones, and fiber to create intricate, delicate jewelry with a presence. Each piece is handmade and one-of-kind. With some pieces, I crochet or weave tiny beads into silk, and with others, I use wire to create the individual links that become a necklace or bracelet. I collect antique English sterling watch fobs and match safes and will use those in some of my work, as well. I’m always on the lookout for an interesting or unusual component to add. I want each piece to tell a story, to resonate with the wearer. I also do commission work: wedding jewelry, anniversary rosaries, birthday/bat mitzvah jewelry. These pieces are particularly meaningful to me because they allow me to be a part of a very happy and memorable occasion.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I really enjoy talking with other jewelry artists and getting to know their work. And participating in art markets has exposed me to other mediums that help me see the light, color, shape, texture in different ways. Taking classes is a good way to learn a skill and connect with others, too.

Pricing:

• Earrings: $35-$125
• Necklaces: $65-350

Contact Info:

• Email: dorie721@yahoo.com
• Website: www.doriekerr.com
• Instagram: doriekerr
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/doriekerrjewelry