Read the original full article at One of a Kind Show & Sale | Chicago
A former teacher turned beaded jewelry artist, Deb Reutter uses tiny Japanese glass beads to create one-of-a-kind pieces from everyday details, patterns and colors that inspire her.
Tell us about your creative process:
Deb: Through my journey of learning and making, I am finding my voice and honoring my unique process. When I notice something beautiful and interesting. I take a picture, design a pattern, determine colorways, and ultimately create the piece. I hand sew or loom tiny Japanese glass cylinder beads and couple them with components I often metalsmith myself.
What does your artwork represent?
Deb: My work represents the beauty I see in the seemingly mundane, everyday world. It represents what I see when I look around and pay attention. It also represents perseverance and hard work. I am not a professionally trained artist, but I am tenacious and creative. I hope my artwork will inspire others to explore their own creativity and passion.
How has creating helped you in your own life?
Deb: What makes my story exceptional and inspiring is that in November 2021, I had a ruptured brain aneurysm that nearly ended my life. Prior to this, I was a teacher for 20+ years. However, I was unable to return to teaching because of lasting cognitive issues. Jewelry was my hobby prior to teaching but while I was in recovery it became my therapy. It is meditative and calming and I love what I am doing. I view the world a bit differently than before. I see, appreciate, and find beauty in details of everyday life that I want to share through my jewelry.
