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Feature: Native Rainbow (Interview!)

This summer I came across an Etsy shop that I fell madly in love with: Native Rainbow. Native Rainbow’s bold, unique, bohemian jewelry and accessories are perfect for those who want to stand out. I was able to interview the beautiful woman (yes, she’s the model, too!) behind Native Rainbow, Lizzie, to find out where her inspiration comes from, and what advice she has for others interested in becoming a jewelry designer!

LA Inspiration: Where does the name Native Rainbow come from?

Lizzie: Native Rainbow signifies my personal mantra or an inspirational way of living. These words evoke a spiritual power that reminds me to embody my native self as a positive colorful spectrum and be aware of my impact in life.

LAI: When did you begin designing, and what was the final push that made you decide to start your own business?

L: Art has been my passion since before I can remember. I’ve always sketched, painted and crafted. My sister and I used to make jewelry as children. We’d set up a table on the corner of our block and sell our creations.

I dabbled in the fashion and music industries in Los Angeles for almost ten years, continuing my art in various mediums. After feeling the grind in a depressing job for almost five years I realized that the only way I was going to be happy was to be creative and work for myself. I don’t think I could have a boss again. :) For almost three years now, I have been building my jewelry line to include leather bags, belts, dresses and home decor. With many more ideas for the future. I’m constantly pushing myself to learn new skills and techniques.

LAI: What inspires you?

L: I recently moved back to the South to be closer to my family and to enjoy a simpler way of life. Years of living in the city had taken it’s toll and I found myself wanting more solitude, fresh air, clean water and a greater sense of community. My husband and I wanted a mini farm to live as naturally as possible and to rescue as many animals as we can. My ultimate goal is to start Native Rainbow Animal Sanctuary as a non-profit organization. Offering a haven for unwanted, neglected or abused animals or finding them a new home.

I have always been fascinated by animals, plants and objects in nature, especially stones and crystals. My creativity explodes from retrospective outings in nature. I am in love with the deserts of California, New Mexico and Arizona and draw constant inspiration from them. Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. The Smokey Mountains are home. And Egypt and Morocco are dream destinations at the top of my list. 

LAI: Is there a certain piece of yours that is your personal favorite?

L: I am my own worst critic so I wouldn’t necessarily say that I have a piece that is my favorite. I always find something about a piece I would improve. However, I would say that my favorite pieces to create would be my hand-painted bags and turquoise rings.

LAI: What kind of person do you envision wearing Native Rainbow?

L: I envision eclectic bohemian babes wearing Native Rainbow. I feel that most of my items are big statement pieces, made for the edgy individuals.

LAI: Who are your top 3 favorite musicians?

L: My top 3 favorite musicians is a tough question. I love music. I mainly listen to music from the 50s- early 70s. Stax and Motown labels. All the old southern Blues players. Psych music from all over the world in the 60s really turns me on! French Pop, fuzz guitar and good ole Rock n Roll soothes my soul. I’ll never grow tired of the 13th Floor Elevators, CCR, Sir Douglas Quintet, Them, the Stones, Jacques Dutronc, Jefferson Airplane, the African band Witch, and the list goes on and on.

LAI: If you could collaborate with any brand you wished, who would it be?

L: There is so much fresh talent in the design market today. If I could do a collaboration with anyone, I would say my dear friend Katelyn. She has previously designed for Nanette Lepore and Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent. She pretty much reinvented the Navajo and Southwest inspired cardigan sweaters. And I think together we could blow people away. A collaboration could happen in the near future. You can check out her blog here.
LAI: What advice do you have for jewelry designers just starting out?

L: I would advise up and coming jewelry designers to stay true to themselves. The market is over-saturated and people will rip off your designs daily. Just stick with it and always have fun creating. I don’t allow myself to look at other artists’ jewelry because I do not want to subconsciously copy someone. I enjoy knowing that all of my creations are organically cultivated from my brain and not someone elses.

Lizzie also wanted to add, “I believe in humane treatment of animals.  All of my leather hides are purchased directly from hunters so I know the animal was used for purpose of food.  My feathers are humanely acquired, most being shed naturally as well as my deer antlers.
 

Comments 1

  1. Deby Cummings wrote:

    Love the interview…and the jewelry and clothing you make. I would love an autographed photo of you. You are one beautiful young lady.

    Posted 13 Nov 2012 at 6:10 pm

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