Today's artist spotlight focuses on one of our newest artists, Trecy Bleich. Her minimalist designs belie what is meticulous metalic beadwork and are some of our favorites.
Learn more about Trecy Bleich Jewelry and her focus on innovative design and empowerment through inspiration.
What is your favorite part of the maker’s process?
My favorite part is seeing a planned design come out the way I envisioned it.
How do you go about starting new designs, do you plan ahead or just jump right in?
I always plan ahead. Jewelry making can be expensive so I have to take into account the material cost and how easily materials can be acquired again due to wholesaling part of my business. Most times, I design from materials I already have in stock. That way if I like the way the design turns out, it can easily be placed in my product offering and have a consistent look with the rest of my designs.
Do you like a tidy work space or functional chaos?
Both. I am less stressed when my work space is tidy. However, time does not allow me to clean on a regular basis. One benefit of working in functional chaos though, is I see new designs amongst the messy materials on my work surface. I love when that happens. I currently have a design idea based off of the mess of beads on my desk.
What has been your biggest challenge as a professional artist and how did you get started?
In the beginning, my biggest challenge was attending artist markets. I didn’t have anyone to take care of my young child and my husband traveled for work very often. Later on, funding became an issue when I wanted to attend trade shows.
Jumping right in, that’s how I got started with making jewelry. I obtained my license, then I just went for it! I wanted to be home with my son when he was born so I left my job and started making jewelry. 15 years later, I'm still a professional artist.
What brings you the most joy outside of the studio?
Enjoying life is what brings me joy. I also get so much inspiration just being outdoors.
What do you wish to see in the future to support artist owned small businesses?
Easy access to financing and local opportunity for education is a great support for artists. Most importantly having customers who appreciate handcrafted goods and the slow, unique process it takes to craft them.
Anything exciting in the works/coming up for you this year?
Some of my designs will be sold in support of an upcoming exhibition based on the 1970s at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Art, April – October 2025. It is called Kwame Brathwaite: The 1970s.