Jeweler Interview with Jim Dailing

There is a strange and intriguing fusion of industrial and organic influences in the work of Jim Dailing.  Concentrating on high end bespoke designs, he is lucky enough to be able to focus on individual clients and designs and be fully immersed in the creation of each unique piece.  Here, he shares some of his loves and hates about his work.

Where do you find inspiration?

In the past I have been greatly inspired by the Art Nouveau movement as well as Art Deco. Currently my work tends to take on a certain European simplicity though I am mostly inspired by my clients and their stories.

What is your favorite design, and is this your best seller?

All of my work is one-of-a-kind, both via fabrication and casting, so I don't really have a favorite design, however I do love my line inlay pieces as they are so unique to the field and the most graphic, but in a subtle, quiet sort of way.

ghjHow did you first get into jewelry art?

I studied architecture all through high school and early into college up until I saw a friend of mine in a doorway as I was walking though the Fine Arts Building on campus. I waved and walked in to see what he was making. He was cutting an opal and after watching him for nearly an hour, he gave me an opal to cut and that changed my life. That was 32 years ago. Damn that's a long time!!!!!

What keeps you motivated?

Don't get me wrong as there are days in the studio that are like pulling teeth, but I love what I do and have got my brother in to designing as well as many other through the years. I love the idea of creating something that has literally never existed before and having it worn by people that will wear it for years and probably hand it down to a child that hasn't even been born yet. That's pretty cool!

Can you name another jewelry designer whose work you admire?

Albert Paley!

Do you find the process of experimentation frustrating or inspiring?

I also love to teach and have taught beginning sculpture as well as many jewelry making classes over the years and one of my favorite terms to use is "playing in the studio". We don't give ourselves permission to play, or experiment often enough if ever. This is where we are open enough to come up with some of our most exciting work..... so I love to experiment.

Do you prefer doing retail or trade events?

I have done some of both in the past and have not for about 10 years. I am thinking about doing a few again to broaden my sales, but I much more prefer working one on one with my clients.

If you could have any jewelry super-power to help you with your jewelry what would it be? (Perhaps flame throwing hands to fire your pieces quickly? Mind reading for your customers? Extra arms? :)

Laser welding eyesight for fabricating metal.

You can find out more about Jim at his website, www.jimdailing.com