Artisan Q+A: Julissa of Lit Spirit Jewels
For Julissa, a lifelong creative spark finds an outlet in her latest project, Lit Spirit Jewels. Wire-wrapping crystals into vibrant, energetic jewelry brings her into an inspired, meditative flow; it allows her to share beauty and uplifting vibrations with others. Read about our newest artisan's artistic evolution, sources of inspiration, and see the designs in-person at our unique boutique!
What do you create?
I create crystal and stone wire wrapped jewelry. At the moment I mainly create simple wire-wrapped jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and bracelets. Occasionally sketches and paintings as well so stay tuned.
Have you always been creative?
I’d say yes! When I was a child I loved playing outside. Sometimes I would wander around my yard collecting as many different colored plants as I could, to use them as my art medium on paper. It was one of my favorite things to do for a while. I also loved using poetry as a form of expression in elementary school. Mostly the extremely rhyming type. My elementary school vice principle really encouraged this in me, and got one of my short poems published into this book.
I do believe my high school art class and teacher was what really made me realize how much I loved the arts! Though it was a mandatory class in my school, I really loved expanding my skills with every new challenging assignment. I was close to choosing art - whether fine arts or photography - as my major after that class. Especially after getting accepted into the CalArts summer program the following summer, with the option of either a photography or fine arts focus! I ended up deciding on another major however, with art as a possible minor / hobby.
What people, places, idea, or things do you draw inspiration from?
I find myself drawing inspiration from deep emotions, the unspoken, unheard, or unexplored.
What is your favorite piece or style that you’ve created so far?
My favorite piece has to be the first couple of stones I ever wrapped when a friend taught me on a lovely retreat up in the Appalachian Mountains one Spring. It consists of a small white agate above a green calcite. I find this piece to be forever uplifting whenever I wear it. It never really lets me down.
How has your craft evolved?
It’s evolved in the sense that I like to make my pieces a lot neater, since they are now usually inquired upon. Basically, because now everything I create is usually for someone other than myself it’s got to be as precise and neat as it can be if it’s going out with my name on it. Besides that, all my crafts still include the same amount of thought and love they did from the very beginning! It’s got to be exactly what someone was looking for and nothing less.
What do you do if you feel like you’re in a creative slump or block?
Retreating into nature always helps relax me and release any stress keeping me from creating what I desire. It can be a hike in the mountains, or a nice afternoon at the beach. Meditation is also another great way for me. I sit with myself and let whatever is causing those possible blockages arise from my subconscious. Then assess whatever thought as best I can to break through.
How do you get into the creative zone?
Creativity and inspiration usually strike me like lightning! From that point on it is usually up to me to take advantage then and there, run with it, or “save it for later.” It has always really been that way for me. I can be doing anything, then get this creative urge where I drop everything and just go for it. It may not always result in the best creations, but is always a step forward, and very relaxing.
Favorite color?
I like yellow and purple!
Favorite music or song to listen to while creating?
Always something different.
Favorite place?
New places are my favorite.
What advice or encouragement can you give to someone just discovering their creative talents?
Believe in what you are driven to - with all of your might. Odds are, whatever you have to offer, no one else can! We are all unique and so are our creations!
Do you have any goals you’re working towards with your craft?
Only to improve and expand!
What are 5 things you’ve been interested in lately?
Matcha Green Tea, Europe, Essential Oils, Music, Coffee
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Lit Spirit Jewels are available now at
Create & Express
111 Eucalyptus Drive
El Segundo, CA
310 . 955 . 7355
createandexpress.com
