Sheila Smedley’s first foray into the artisan show at Monterey last year was a success, primarily, she feels, because of the product she offered – goats milk aloe butter soap.
Sounds good enough to eat, almost.
This year, the Oak Bay artist will bring her longtime passion for jewelry, primarily in seasonal glitz, to the Nov. 22 event.
“There will be a couple of different lines,” she said, gesturing to the ‘winter berries’ adorning her own neck and ears. “At this time of year people enjoy the glitz and glamour.”
The resident jewelry artist at Sidestreet Studio on Oak Bay Avenue also teaches the craft at Monterey Recreation centre. For three years, she’s shared her knowledge.
“It’s fun for me because I love teaching and I love watching people discover their own creativity,” Smedley said.
Elizabethan and Edwardian jewelry opened her artistic mind 11 years ago while she was living overseas.
“I was inspired by especially the historical reproduction pieces in the UK,” she said.
It’s led to the ability to be a full-time self-employed artist the last seven years as Sarabande Treasures.
“I’m thankful every day to be doing what I do. I don’t take it for granted,” she said. “I put my time in jobs I didn’t particularly like … it’s a wonderful surprise to do what I’m doing.”
Soap creation (followed by other skincare products) began for her more than three years ago when she realized her habit of buying quality soap was starting to add up.
“Then I discovered I could make it myself,” she said. “And I love knowing exactly what’s in it. In this day and age that’s nice.”
Smedley offers all her creations during the Monterey Recreation Artisan Show and Sale on Saturday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m, to 2 p.m. at 1442 Monterey Ave.
