Designing Diva

September 25th, 2007 by Poise Daily Staff Member in She Interviews on the Latest Trends, Interviews

Find something that you can be passionate about.
—-Martha Stewart

by: Debi Dodson
Daily Confection photo shoot by Abbe Foreman, The makeup Artist is Tamika Rush and Stylist is Jay Williams and model Kristina Smolyar wearing jewelry by Designing Diva.

When Randi Sue, artist and owner of Designing Diva Jewelry, first read this simple little quote it changed her life forever. Martha and her best friend, Nozomi, a bead weaving enthusiast, who also helped in the transformation.

“She (Nozomi) is a whiz at bead weaving and has patiently taught me various skills. Before long, I was addicted…but at this point it was still a creative outlet and just a hobby.”

The once self proclaimed ‘lab geek’ has since gone on to become a qualified and talented jewelry designer. Totally self-sufficient, with no need for the lab any more, Randi Sue of Designing Diva Jewelry has one-of-a-kind items made from only the highest quality products. If you’re looking for something authentic and unique, look no further.

SheUnlimited-Daily Confection recently had the opportunity to talk with this creative designer.

Q. Hi Randi, your pieces are amazing. Works of art, to say the least. Since you have no formal training, how did you get started making such lovely, hand-crafted jewelry?
A. I have always appreciated and been drawn to designer hand-crafted jewelry. The more unique the piece, the more I would want to know about the design and the designer. This curiosity led me to devour jewelry design books and magazines. Experimenting is nothing new to me. Previously a clinical scientist, I love mixing and combining just to see what will happen. The wearable art that I create is just that …my experiments with precious metals, stone and glass. These jewelry designs are my creative expressions based on my experiences and that is what makes it unique. When I want something, I go for it and I believe that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. Being so passionate about designing jewelry, how could I do anything else?

Q. Imagination is crucial for any artist. Don’t you think that most people set boundaries on their imagination, but the boundaries are pushed by artists who create such unique works?
A. I think that society is often threatened by what it perceives to be “different” or “change” and that is why boundaries are imposed. If you look back into history many artists were not recognized until after they were dead because they were visionaries ahead of their time. Society was not able to handle their difference at the time.

Q. An artist’s studio is her sanctuary, where is yours located?
A. My studio is located in our Dallas based home. I am so fortunate to have such an understanding husband (thank you John!) who let me take over one of our living areas to convert into a studio so I could keep a close eye on our young family (Brittney is 8 and Blake is 6).

Q. You chose the word ‘diva’ because it is the Latin word for ‘goddess.’ Do you think women are goddesses?
A. Absolutely! That is what I want to impress upon every women- you are beautiful and special and unique.

Q. Tell us a little about your designs. What type of jewelry do you create?
A. This is such a difficult question for me. I really dislike labeling because it is much more than just a “type”. We all experience “art” differently, why should “wearable art” be different? Two people can look at the same design and think completely different “labels”. Ok, back to the question…yes, I do create an assortment of styles that society would label. (OMG…I sound like a snooty artist and that is not how I want this to come across). I have designs for every moment in life irregardless of age… classic jewelry for the business professional or the women who like to play “safe” with accessories, to bold designs for those who like to make a statement.

Q. Would we recognize anyone who is wearing your jewelry? I heard you had pieces worn at a Warner Bros. premier in Japan.
A. To my knowledge, my jewelry collection has not been worn by a major celebrity yet. Yes, my jewelry has been worn to a premier opening of Warner Bros. in Japan. The same jewelry collection was also gifted to JoJo (platinum selling pop/R&B singer) for a swag bag, but has she been photographed wearing it? I just don’t know!

Q. Getting back to the all important design process…what types of materials go into your projects?
A. I tend to use precious metals like sterling silver, fine silver or 14k GF (gold-fill) in my designs. I purchase unusual semi-precious stones and create my own lamp work beads and fused glass designs. These high quality materials will ensure the wearer will get a life time of use out of my jewelry designs.

Q. I haven’t yet had the pleasure of seeing one of your designs first hand, only pictures, which I’m sure don’t do them justice. I can’t wait for my order to arrive. Christian Dior is to fashion, as Randi Sue of Designing Diva is to jewelry. Before we close, Randi, is there anything else you’d like our audience to know?
A. Art is always in the details. I want to ensure that you are getting something unique from Designing-Diva. If you are drawn to a piece of jewelry, it is because it resonates with who you are. Don’t worry about what’s in your closet. Jewelry is a form of self expression and if it resonates it will be “natural” for you to wear and express your “inner Diva”! Remember, you are a goddess!

Randi: Thanks so much for letting me share my passion!

Daily Confection: Thank you, Randi, for allowing SheUnlimited-Daily Confection to share in your enthusiasm.

If anyone would like to know more about Randi Sue or Designing Diva Jewelry, please visit her website: www.designing-diva.com.

Abbe Foreman: www.abbeforemanphoto.com

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