Moose Spotlight: Creating Classic Jewelry Pieces
"
Keep working, surround yourself with supportive people, and compete only with yourself!"
- Alexis Monteleone
MEET THE ARTIST
@desertfoxjewelry.co on Instagram
This is jewelry artist Alexis Monteleone, based in sunny California. She makes handcrafted jewelry and you can find her pieces on Instagram @desertfoxjewelry.co She started silversmithing last year of June 2021.
THE JOURNEY TO CREATING JEWELRY
"I've always been a super creative person, and admired silversmith work. I love wearing jewelry and always hoped one day I would be able to make it myself." Alexis shared that throughout her tattoo collecting journey, she was lucky enough to meet her talented friend, Melissa Freeman. She noted how she has always admired her art and was a big inspiration for learning the silversmith trade. "I'm forever grateful for having such a great teacher and friend!"
Alexis is relatively new in jewelry-making. She said that one of the biggest struggles she had throughout her creative journey is patience. "I always get so excited when working on a project and want to complete it, but sometimes things don't always go as planned." Overtime, she has learned that it's best to take a step back and appreciate what you've done, instead of pushing yourself too far. Adding that indeed, patience is key!
Her brand, "Desert Fox Jewelry" is based off her love for the desert. "I spend as much time as I can out in Borrego Springs. I've always felt drawn to it. A true desert soul."
Firsts are almost always unforgettable. "Selling my first piece was very special because it showed trust and support from the buyer," Alexis recalled the first time she sold her very first creation. She added that she was lucky enough to sell her first piece to a fellow artist, Juanita Mass, who is an oil painter. "It’s a huge benefit to have a community or network of people who love you and your work and encourage you at every opportunity."
Check out some of Alexis beautiful work!
Turquoise Jewelry by Alexis Monteleone of @desertfoxjewelry.co on Instagram
ARTIST'S DESIGN STYLE
Curious if she remembers her first AHA! moment, where she felt genuinely happy with what she's done, Alexis said that she's always pleased with all her work. She explained, "because I know I put my best efforts forward. Recently I made a custom piece for a client that was a Yungai Turquoise ring and I can proudly say it's my favorite piece I've ever done!" It took a lot of time and effort for her but Alexis said it was definitely worth it!
On learning, one piece of advice she has would be finding one's unique perspective and to never stop learning. "Your art will be uniquely powerful when it shares a perspective or insight that only you can bring to the world. Keep working, surround yourself with supportive people, and compete only with yourself!"
Let's take a look at some more stunning creations by Alexis!
Handmade Turquoise Rings by Alexis Monteleone of @desertfoxjewelry.co on Instagram
THE DESIGN PROCESS
"My design process varies depending on the piece but I always like to keep a classic traditional look." Alexis shared that she's looking forward to advancing and growing with her progress in the future.
Asked to describe her design style, she said it's a mix of classic boho, Western, and vintage.
JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES
What's one design tip you one to share with your fellow artists?
"Don't be afraid to try new things and switch up your style!"
Any words of encouragement or tips to those who are starting out in the world of jewelry-making?
""You're always better than you think". I had a fellow jeweler tell me that when I first started out and I've lived by that ever since."
Lastly, here's Alexis' message to the universe:
Find her work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desertfoxjewelry.co/
