Natalie | MSL Bags

Where are you from and does that affect your work?

I am a California girl through and through! Born in Santa Barbara and raised all over Los Angeles, I think my creative work is inspired by that sunny and energetic, chic and aspirational vibe that you get from living in SoCal.

What is your biggest artistic influence?
My style is influenced mainly by a BOHO aesthetic. An earthy and relaxed approach, expressing nature through abstract prints, and mixing different cultural expressions into an eclectic style that is free-spirited, yet elevated.

How do you define success as an artist?

Finding joy in the process of creating.

Well put. What would you say is the hardest part of the creation process?

Making it look in reality, the way it looks in your head! Creation is oftentimes experimentation. Sometimes it leads you on a path to success, or something even better than you'd imagined! But sometimes it doesn’t work at all, and your vision remains unfulfilled, which can be really frustrating.

I bet patience comes into practice there! How has your style changed over time?

My journey as an artist in this space has really just begun. I am always fond of clean and elevated. So while I am sure to evolve, I think that element will always be a part of my style.

What is your favorite piece that you have created and why?

I only create one product, but the versions I love most are from the Indigo Shibori collection. There is something so clean and soothing about it for me. Maybe it’s the blue…maybe it’s the contrasting saturation of color against the white…it just makes me feel…ahhhhh.

What do you love most about Burbank?

Having lived in South Pasadena, Arcadia, Culver City, and Westwood during my lifetime, Burbank was always a hop skip and a jump away! From kid’s birthday parties at the local Chuck. E Cheese, to devouring Picanha’s cheezy biscuits as a young adult, Burbank has been a part of my life as long as I can remember.

Find MSL Bags at The Downtown Burbank Arts Festival on June 8th & 9th, 2024.
Website: www.mslbags.com

Facebook; www.facebook.com/mysourcelifebags

Instagram: @mslbags

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Parisa from Parisa KJ

I hail from Iran, a nation rich in traditional crafts and artistic heritage. Growing up immersed in the rich tapestry of Iranian arts and crafts has profoundly influenced my creative journey. It has sparked a deep-seated desire within me to not only embrace these traditions but to make them an integral part of my life and work.

How did you get your start?

I initially pursued my craft as a hobby, but for the past year, it has become my full-time profession.

Congratulations! Who is your biggest artistic influence?

One of my biggest artistic inspirations was a cousin of mine back in Iran. Her handcrafted leather bag shows, where she sold her creations, sparked my passion for becoming a handbag designer. 

Very cool. How do you define success as an artist?

I believe an artist is someone who creates art purely for the sake of art, without being preoccupied by other considerations. Their artwork captivates viewers, encouraging them to ponder it for an extended period of time.

What is a typical day in the studio like for you?

Typically, I review emails in the morning, attend any online seminars or meetings, fulfill orders throughout the day, and dedicate my afternoons to working on my designs and projects.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Crafting a bag from thick leather, especially when multiple layers require sewing together…

How has your career and art developed?

My journey in both my career and art has been a gradual evolution. Initially, I pursued art as a hobby, but over the years, my passion for handbag design deepened. Taking a significant step, I registered my business and actively participated in workshops tailored for small businesses. Concurrently, I was a student studying Fashion Merchandising, which greatly contributed to shaping my career and business ventures.

Has your style changed over time?

I wouldn't claim that my style has undergone significant change, but I have noticed a growing preference for brighter colors compared to the past.

Very fun. Do your creations help you in other areas of your life?

Absolutely, my involvement in art has significantly influenced various aspects of my life. It has transformed the way I perceive both things and people, fostering a deep appreciation for the intricacies of handcraft. Additionally, participating in art-related events has been instrumental in expanding my social circle, leading to the formation of meaningful connections with individuals who share similar interests.

Do you have a favorite item that you’ve created, and why?

My favorite bag has to be the Moon Purse, one of my earliest designs. Its compact, lightweight, and distinctive design makes it the perfect everyday companion for when you're out and about. It provides just enough space for your essential items when you're running errands.

What do you love most about Pasadena?

I adore Pasadena for its vibrant atmosphere and the diverse array of art and cultural events that unfold throughout the year. What truly stands out is the city's rich mosaic, not just in culture and art, but also in the field of science. Living in proximity to institutions like Cal Tech and the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a source of great satisfaction. However, my absolute favorite is the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair. Here, I have the wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow art enthusiasts and engage with clients in person, listening to their insights and ideas about my work.

We love hearing that and having you with us! Is there anything special that you’d like to share?

I have recently introduced my online store, offering fans a convenient shopping destination for their favorite items at www.parisakj.com.

Catch Parisa KJ at Jackalope Pasadena on April 27th & 28th, 2024.

Website: www.parisakj.com

Instagram: @handbagsbyparisakj

Dante Perozzi

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I have moved around a ton in my life, so it's not easy to sum up. I was born in Zimbabwe, lived in places like Virginia, Louisiana, South Carolina, sailed on a boat along the US east coast and into the Caribbean, and finally settled in Arizona. The longest I stayed anywhere was 12 years in California, but I was just 21 when I got there. I think all that moving around made me more open to taking risks, trying new things, and not being afraid of big changes or new ideas.

Very cool! Do you have any artistic influences?

Yes! Other than finding beauty in formal attributes and shapes - I am always moved and inspired by sculpture. Some favorites that I can think of right now are Louise Nevelson, Gordon Matta Clark, Robert Motherwell, Carl Andre, Eva Hesse.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success as an artist is creating something that can affect the thoughts or emotions of others through my creations. They have an impact and can be absorbed/appreciated by an audience. In the case of jewelry, I feel successful when I see someone light up when they find or wear my my jewelry. 

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Knowing when to stop! I have endless ideas and I could make new designs indefinitely. But I have learned to hold myself back otherwise I become buried by the production of too many pieces at a time. Patience doesn’t come easily to me.  

Has your style changed over time?

I went from working with very clean lines, straight edges, smooth surfaces with sharp angled designs that were highly structural in nature to the complete opposite end of the spectrum! I am currently making pieces that are highly textural, and more organic in form. It’s funny to think about how very different my work is now.

Ya we can spot the difference from when you first started doing our fairs! How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I have steadily added skills to my knowledge base from the beginning. I thrive off of a design challenge-and since I don't let my personal skillset limit my ideas, I am often seeking out knowledge via courses or local resources in order to bring my idea to life.

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I could never pick a favorite. But I’ll say that I am really enjoying making chains lately. I have a beautiful new piece called the Nara Chain and I find it mesmerizing.  I can definitely see more unique chain making in my future.

Can’t wait to see what you will create next! And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

I have been in Colorado for 5.5 years now and the beauty of this state is truly incomparable, I have also really grown to love the active and engaged community of people I have found here. I have 2 young boys that I am very grateful to be able to raise in this special place.

Can’t wait to be back there next week! Catch Dante Perozzi at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.danteperozzi.com

Instagram: @danteperozzijewelery

Tatiana of Sanin Jewelry

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I am from Medellin, Colombia, the city of the eternal spring. Being born there brings a different sunshine to my inspiration that is reflected in some of my pieces. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Doing what you love every day of your life surrounded by your loved ones.

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

The days when I don't have inspiration. I used to think that I needed to be creative everyday, but I am just a human with sunny and rainy days. There will be days full of wonderful ideas and others for resetting myself.  

Well said. Has your style changed over time?

A lot! From the materials I use, to the design process, and I think it will continue evolving and that excites me!

How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I am coming out of a time in my life when I took a couple years to work on myself and get some clarity in my life. I am ready for the next chapter of growing and learning. I am planning to attend a design school next year to discover more about this creative world.

Very cool! What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I have a lot of favorite items, it is hard to choose. I love my WILDLIFE COLLECTION because I am a big animal lover. I also adore my CONSTANTINE COLLECTION that was inspired by the architecture of the big cathedrals around the world. My father helped me to bring my ideas to life and having his hands be part of this process makes every piece very special to me.

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The nature! The silhouettes of the mountains getting lost in the sky and the magnificent wildlife that I have the honor to be surrounded by. What a lucky girl to wake up with the sound of the birds and go to bed with the light of the stars. 

Catch Sanin Jewelry at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.sanin.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saninjewelry

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?
I was born in London, UK. However, I have lived, studied and taught in many countries. It is these experiences that inspired my Yoga Purse business.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

I can remember the first time I went to a public library. I remember feeling like my whole world had opened up, I was around 6 or 7 years old. Each page of every book was a window to a world I had yet to explore.

I could spend hours in a library or good book store! How do you define success as an artist?
Success is the process of bringing an idea to fruition. When I am able to design a product, then create it and sell it at Jackalope, it is very fulfilling. Perhaps, the true success is when a customer buys a product I created and simply loves it. To see that reaction is just priceless.

Very rewarding. Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

For me, it’s not a matter of IF I have time to be creative. Creating has become such a big part of who I am. I’m not sure that my brain could switch my creativity off. There’s constantly some creative rumblings running through my head!

How have you developed your skill at your craft?
One of my favorite sayings is “every day is a school day - if you’re lucky”. Learning something new brings me so much joy, and that goes for learning and developing new skills.

I’m a visual and tactile learner, so trying a new skill and failing is part of how I not only learn, but also look at something in a different way.

A great perspective. What is the hardest part of your creation process?
Saying no to all of the new ideas!

That would be hard! How has your style changed over time?
Many moons ago, I owned a fabric store. My style at the time was driven by neutral colors. My colleague and brilliant assistant Kym was the complete opposite. She loved bright colors! When it came to choosing fabric for the store, we would buy and choose together to create a well-rounded collection. Over time, I moved away from neutrals and shifted my focus to bright colors and designs that make a statement.

Embracing color, love it! What’s the best thing about being an artist?

Exercising my creativity.

How about a favorite item you have created?

I love the first versions of Yoga Purse that I created, but I think my favorite item is the shoulder sling that I adapted again and again until it was just right. It was a lot of work, but I enjoyed every step. The shoulder sling Yoga Purse designs are now my best sellers!

Love it! Anything special you’d like to share?

I encourage everyone to find a creative outlet. That could mean art, music, writing, filmmaking or even starting a business. Create something, and enjoy the process.

In addition, embrace the prospect of "failure" , when we let go of being perfect, opportunities become way more fun ;-)

Well said! We can’t wait to see you in person this November 19th & 20th at Jackalope Pasadena!

Where to see more of Yoga Purse:

Website | www.yogapurse.com

Instagram | @yogapurse

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?

I am proud to be Mexican American and I feel deeply rooted to my Mexican culture. My family is from Jalisco Mexico where I have been able to travel since I was a child. My love of leather and design combines my Mexican culture with the artisanal art of leather tooling.

I think your work definitely speaks to your heritage and we love that. Who/what are your biggest artistic influences? 

I have a specific love of Chicano art and the beauty of the bright colors used in Latino art pieces.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success is being able to provide pieces that are enjoyed and appreciated by others.

That is a great perspective. Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

It brings me joy in supporting the artisans that we work with and efforts to keep this art form of tooling alive.

Very cool. How have you developed your skill at your craft?

By connecting with artisans and collaborating and sharing ideas. 

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Sourcing the raw materials and creating enough product to meet demand. Inventory issues.

How has your style changed over time?

The designs of the handbags have changed to keep up with trends but the tooling has remained traditional to keep the cultural authenticity.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

My latest design! See below:

What do you love most about Pasadena?

The transformation of how the city has invested in making old town better and their support of the arts.

We can’t wait to see you in person this November 19th & 20th at Jackalope Pasadena!

Where to see more of Ciselè Handcrafted Leather:

Website |www.cisele.net

Instagram | @Cisele2019

Do you have a story behind your company name?

Yes, Something to Cherish® is a play off of my birth name, Cherish, which means: beloved, to treasure, to care for, or to hold dear. When I started this art brand in 2007, I didn't know what I wanted to call it, but the mystery was soon solved with a call from my mom who had been talking with my grandmother. They had brainstormed the name “Something to Cherish.” I thought it was a wonderful name but assumed that somebody else was already using it. To my surprise, the trademark was available.

Something to Cherish® means that life is a gift to cherish. It’s an extension of my family legacy that focuses on loving and caring for people from all walks of life. As a community, if we’ve learned nothing else from the past years of Covid, hopefully, we have learned that no one is promised tomorrow, and we all need meaningful human connection. This present moment truly is a sacred gift to be cherished.

So true, and we love how personal your company name is. How did you get your start?

Since I was a little girl, I made art and played “gift shop” by creating amusing little things for all my family members to “purchase.” I even offered a gift wrapping service! In high school and college, I was fortunate to study art and earned multiple degrees in illustration, fine art, and design. Initially, I concentrated on children’s book illustration. After illustrating my first two books, I started a greeting card company and began assisting independent publishers in publishing their own books, which led me to realize my gift for artistic product development. 

Early in my career, I was selected to lead the art team for a company owned by Clint Eastwood (Tehama), where I learned about the intricacies of product development from firsthand experience, designing high-end resort wear that often appeared in celebrity sightings. I was also appointed to create surface pattern designs for the IZOD G (a PVH brand) and Arnold Palmer fashion lines where I learned about licensing and our global apparel markets. 

Wow that is really cool. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

My favorite part is the spark creation that takes me off into a flow of delightful surprises, one after another. I often see things in colors and words before I see images. So, it's a fascinating journey to put pictures to the feelings and sensations that I have in my brain to help bring a story and vision to fruition. Stretching myself to use my various gifts and life experiences in each project is also challenging and fun.

Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

One of the reasons I always wanted to be an artist is that I thrive on atypical days, as spontaneity is often the fuel for my next brainchild. However, I have also learned the importance of honoring my circadian rhythm so I am dedicated to opening and closing a day with a certain routine. Every morning I begin in the studio with a gratitude painting practice where I take out a blank sheet of watercolor paper, prepare my watercolors, and let my wet brush guide the painting. After this, I may work on a visual project, meet with business associates, teach an art class, work in my garden, take a walk, take an entrepreneurship class, and/or hop in and out of the computer to facilitate momentum – it all depends on the season, the deadlines, and my current endeavors.

Love that the first part of your day is a painting! What inspires you to create?

My work is highly inspired by nature. I love the little intricacies of how a flower buds, how a blade of grass is swept along in a creek, the rustling sway of trees, the taste of the life-giving herbs, and the way we are all connected on the substance of earth amid an infinite starry landscape. I’m enthralled with the divine order of things and honored to contribute my song to the vast chorus of creation.

Do you have a favorite item you have made?

There is a range of beautiful things I have created over the years, but I am still exceptionally proud of the tote bag I designed for my “Elements by Cherish” line in partnership with Studio M. Each beautiful canvas bag in this collection not only reflects the joys of the elements of earth, fire, wind, air, and cosmos as interpreted by my watercolor designs, but the leather-handled bags are very sturdy and are designed to travel both near and far. I designed it with my ballet dancing sister in mind (it’s amazing how much they need to carry to each show!). Its big size and pockets fit everything you need for work or leisure. I love mine for a trip to the farmer’s market, and I have been known to use it as a weekender bag to the hot springs or beach. And best yet, it stows perfectly underneath an airline seat!

That is a true win! What do you love most about Colorado?

As a multi-generational native of Colorado, I adore the sunrises and sunsets over the purple mountain majesties. Living against the foothills, I love the close proximity to both the yawning prairies out east and the mountain passes to the west. I’m excited by the future with its expanding cultural opportunities and reflect on my deep family history roots in this little corner of the planet.

What will you be bringing to Jackalope?

I’m excited to debut a new collection of tablet-friendly handbags, luxurious handmade silk scarves, accent pillows, boho baby blankets, and other accessories featuring my watercolor designs. In addition, I will be displaying a series of signed and numbered prints, as well as a selection of original watercolor paintings.

Anything special you would like to add?

While it’s a joy to share resplendent watercolor stories and inspiring words through quality designed goods that become a part of everyday life, it’s also important to remember the bigger picture. Because of the success of Something to Cherish®, it’s an honor to partner with non-profits that help me plant fruit trees in vulnerable areas where food, jobs, and vegetation is necessary for communities to survive and thrive. I love how one fruit tree can multiply into many possibilities for provision, nourishment, and even seeds for future trees, practically cherishing both people and the planet for many years.

Lastly, I'm excited that Jackalope is coming to this special area of Colorado, home to so many people who have supported my art journey over the last 20 years. I'm thrilled to have a venue to share my latest works and to celebrate this special milestone. 

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of Something to Cherish:

Website | https://www.SomethingToCherish.com

Instagram | @somethingtocherish

Do you have a story behind your company name?

My father has always been proud of his last name, so naturally I became just as proud and that’s how OLIVO was founded.

We love that! How did you get started?

I was slowing down with being a fashion photographer when my daughter was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and I needed a creative outlet. I knew how much I loved handbags and spent thousands per year purchasing them so I decided I wanted to learn how to make my own!

That is so cool! What inspires you to create?

I get inspired by all sorts of things. Many times it’s simply practicality. We all need practical items in our lives to make our lives easier.

Very true. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Every project has a different favorite part. Personal projects, favorite part = getting it done! Work, client projects = favorite part is coming up with a new idea that actually works the first time around. Picking out the right leather for projects and having great hardware that I know will last the test of time excites me!

What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

A typical day in the studio is getting organized to get work done. I don’t work well with anything being disorganized.

Elysian Bag

Do you have a favorite item you have created?

My newest favorite item is The Elysian Bag. I love it so much because of it’s minimal look but classic design that I created from start to finish really quickly and got it right the first time!

Do you have anything special that you will be bringing to Jackalope?

This will be the first time I will be bringing saddle stitched leather goods to Jackalope which is exciting. I will also be bringing some new block printed goods like stationary and small accessories that make great stocking stuffers.

What did you miss most about in-person events now that events are picking back up again? 

I miss meeting my clients in real life and being able to talk to them about my process and getting excited with them about my products. I look forward to being able to be back in a collective space with fellow artisans and others that appreciate our work.

What do you love most about California, any special memories about Burbank?

I remember my first trip to Los Angeles very clearly in 2001. I fell in LOVE immediately with the mountains and the weather. In 2002 I made it my home. Since moving to LA I have always been a “valley girl” and I wouldn’t change that. Burbank is a sweet suburb where we always join our friends for Halloween because it’s always so festive and fun.

We can’t wait to see you in person this December 11th & 12th in Downtown Burbank.

Where to see more of Olivo:

Website | byraquelolivo.com

Instagram | @byraquelolivo

Why the name fun club?

Originally the company was named Crassholes, but as our wholesale business grew, I realized some buyers wouldn’t even open the catalog just because of the name! So, I changed the name to something a little less polarizing. Fun Club encompasses all that we try to be. FUN, and the worlds most inclusive “club”. Literally anyone can join, as long as you’re nice. And by join, I mean relate to our product and be our friend.

Please tell us how you got started?

In 2016, I was planning a surprise party for my now husband. I couldn’t find any balloons that weren’t the traditional “Happy Birthday” balloons. Where were the funny ones? They didn’t exist, so I made them. I started selling a few styles on the side, and then stores started reaching out to purchase wholesale. (I actually had to google “how to sell wholesale”). In 2018, I quit my full time job and focused on Fun Club full time! Now we are a full gift line, and our best selling products are our pen sets and tote bags.

Love that you jumped in when you saw something was missing on the market! Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

I genuinely love coming up with new ideas! It can get frustrating and sometimes I feel like I am all tapped out creatively, but when an idea comes together it is amazing.

What inspires you to create?

So much! I think life can be really, really, hard, so we might as well try and laugh our way through it! A really big coping mechanism for me is humor. Everything from parenting problems to mental health issues, laughter for me is the best way to survive.

Do you have a favorite item?

Our “Demotivational Pen Set”. This was the first pen set I ever came up with, and I still love it so much. I had seen so many “motivational” products and that is just not my personality at all, so I decided to make the exact opposite. I think it’s hilarious that so many people relate to us, and it is one of our best selling items.

Thats so funny! What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

A typical day in our warehouse involves a ton of things. Managing my team, assisting with fulfilling orders if we are busy, designing new product, purchasing product from other small businesses to sell alongside ours on our site, designing new product or new product packaging, asking 40 people if they think a new idea of mine is funny, social media management, and so much more. When you work for yourself you have 500 jobs and are expected to be an expert in all of them. Thankfully I have a really great team to take some of that stuff off my plate.

What do you love most about California?

The main reason I love California is because most of my family is here. Also what’s not to love about the weather? I grew up in Pasadena, so it will always be home.

What did you miss most about in person events now that events are picking back up again?

The energy! There is something really exhilarating (and exhausting) about meeting so many new people and talking to them. It’s also a great way for me to test out new product.

Do you have anything special that you will be bringing to Jackalope?

SO MUCH STUFF. We will have a gift for everyone on your list. You can come to my booth and personally ask myself or my staff for suggestions for even the most tricky on your list, and I bet we will be able to find something! Tote bags, pens, candles, socks, balloons, stickers, pins, coasters, keychains, and our sparkling personalities.

Anything special you would like to add?

I am so proud that in 2021 Fun Club was able to offer its employees a 401k and health insurance! That was a really big personal goal of mine, so just really stoked that I am able to do that. I can’t stress enough how much I love my team.

We can’t wait to see you in person this November 20th & 21st when Jackalope returns to Central Park, Pasadena.

Where to see more of Fun Club:

Website | www.shopfunclub.com

Instagram | @Shopfunclub

1. How did you get your start in the handmade community? 

I got my start designing women's attire and a few accessory items. I was involved with Fashion Denver, participating in many fashion shows and events, I sold my work through ETSY and several local Denver boutiques. Now after taking some time out of the game and re-focusing my collection I have realized that my love of leather & bags is strong enough to fuel its own exclusive line, and brazen was born. 

2. What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?

My pieces reflect an aesthetic of unusual beauty, by combining my own original embroidered artwork with the textures and patterns of luxury textiles, leather and fur. I am able to create not just another piece of fashion, but a piece of fashion that compliments its owner's own unique beauty and personality, inspiring one to indulge their own brazenness, boldly and without shame.

      3. What or Who Inspires you?

I grew up in a family of artists, and was exposed to all kinds of art from a very young age. From taxidermy to fashion design, my inspirations have a large range. What is a constant inspiration to me are things that are uniquely, sometimes even strangely beautiful. 

4. What is your creative process like?

Sometimes imagery sparks the process, other times it might be a beautiful piece of fabric or leather.  Either way, one thing brings ideas for the other. I love the contrast between light feminine details and the masculine weight of leather hides, so balancing those two is always the most exciting part for me. 

5. What is the coolest artistic tip you have ever received?

'What it means to the artist and what it means to the audience do not always have to be the same thing.'

6. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

Beautiful combinations of luxury textiles, leather, fur, embroidered artwork, all wrapped up in gorgeous functional bags of all sizes, as well as smaller giftable items such as key chains, aprons, sleep masks, book marks and throw pillows.

7. Where can we learn more about you?

www.brazenthreads.com