I {heart} Rhody interviews robin johanson from saunderstown
I {heart} Rhody interviews and showcases a local maker of Rhode Island every Wednesday and shares it within their social networks. RICM is now providing these interviews a publication platform to create greater awareness of these amazing makers!
This month were are featuring:
Artist’s name: Robin Johanson
Shop name: Sea Star Glassworks
1. Tell us about your work.
Using treasures from the sea and stained glass techniques, I handcraft unique accessories for hair, scarves, wraps & jewelry for every beach lover. All glass, shells and stones are found on Rhode Island’s shores. I often incorporate other colored glass, beads and brass charms into my work for texture and interest. Each piece is unique, made with high quality construction and materials.
2. How did you come to be a professional artist/crafter/designer?
I come from a long line of “crafty” women so have enjoyed working with several mediums. In particular, I like to find clever ways to make art functional. A few years ago while creating stained glass panels, I got inspired to create some unusual barrettes for my three daughters... we have a lot of hair! And from there I just kept exploring how to make different pieces.
3. Where do you draw your inspiration?
I draw inspiration from my daughters, my customers and RI’s coastal lifestyle. We all love to collect beach treasures, which traditionally collect dust on our windowsills and in jars. Through my custom work, I make it possible to wear your favorite beach find!
4. What’s your favorite item to create?
Right now I am having fun making sailboats out of shells and beach glass. They come out feeling playful and full of motion. I made them at the holidays to be used as ornaments, but they continue to sell as sun catchers and hostess gifts. Tie one around a bottle of wine and bring to your next dinner party!
5. What’s your best seller?
Ah, that would be a toss up between my earrings with handmade wires or my large clips which are great on shawls, scarfs and hair... very versatile and one of a kind!
6. How long have you been in Rhode Island?
I have been in RI for 23 years now, longer than anywhere else I’ve ever lived! I grew up on the coast north of Boston, spent my 20’s on the Chesapeake, and two years in Canberra, Australia.
7. What do you {heart} about Rhode Island?
I love the people, the old communities and towns, the scenery and open spaces... Actually, one of my favorite aspects of my work is its ability to take a small piece of Rhode Island’s beauty and spread it to other areas!!
8. Please include anything else you’d like to add:
In addition to Etsy, I sell my items at multiple locations. Check my Facebook page for locations and additional holiday markets.
ONLINE
robinjohanson.com or
etsy.com/shop/seastarglassworks
Robin Johanson-Sea Star Glassworks
@seastarglass
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i {heart} rhody
New Rhode Islanders, exploring our adopted home state, sharing the stories of our adventures with all the Ocean State has to offer. Online www.iheartrhody.com Facebook www.facebook.com/iheartrhody Twitter @iheartrhody |