Q&A: Academy Jewelry

Rachel Albright is a jack of all trades-- jewelry wise. Rachel is the creator of the Richmond, Virginia based jewelry company Academy Jewelry.  Academy Jewelry was started as a hobby and grew into a successful company that is now sold at prominent retailers such as Anthropologie and Need Supply Co. Rachel was kind enough to have a little chat with Being/Elliott about her company and creative process. Enjoy the Interview, and be sure to check out Academy Jewelry on Etsy and Facebook.

1. How did you get your start in designing  jewelry? Sort of accidentally, actually. I never set out to design jewelry exclusively, but I had the need to create something, and this was the form it took. There was a response to the jewelry I made from the beginning, so I ran with it.

2. What inspires you to create? Alway, always, always art. There are some truly amazing, talented artists on this earth. Right now, mostly sculpture and installation art.

3. What do you love about working with the materials you use? I've gotten really into using different types of clay and ceramics, and I don't know if I'll ever stop. Clay is so limitless; you can create just about any form your brain can dream up, and they can take so many finishes. I also really love the imperfectness of sculpting by hand. There is evidence of human hand in every piece.

4. Do you have a favorite piece you have made? Currently, oversized and impractical hand-sculpted bracelets. (pictured below)

5. Describe your style aesthetic. Unisex and a little off-kilter.

6. Any current obsessions? Coffee candy, vintage textiles, mountains, Miranda July.

7. What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given? Man up.

8. What is one fashion item you think is a "must-have" for every woman? A perfect white t-shirt

9. Any advice you would like to give to aspiring designers? Make what you want, and be nice to people.

10. Any exciting designing plans for 2013? Of course! But, they are under wraps for now - sorry!