I don't know if this is something that other creatives can relate to, but I am always looking for inspiration, whether it is from the world around me, adapted suggestions from others or even sitting looking at Pinterest! For example, a pair of earrings I recently made were inspired by a mirror I saw while on holiday in Turkey earlier this year.
I have recently enrolled back into college to further my silversmithing skills, initially I wasn't sure if I should, because... well... am I being authentic (yes, the A word that gets thrown around so much these days), or am I being led too much by my superior.
I decided to go for it, my tutor is incredible and the girls I have met there, who I now get to call my friends, are so inspirational. We share our problems around our projects and the struggles we have come up against from the week we've not seen each other, and we offer advice. Not only do we offer advice but we inspire each other and get to motivate each other when we need it.
I have a range of pieces, from basic (not in a derogatory way, but pieces that can be worn to the shops, to work or out out), which are ever so popular. Then to the more complex and creative pieces. I spend a lot of time on the basic pieces, because they are so popular, however they don't challenge me or my creativity, but I'm still so passionate about them, because they are so popular and bring a lot of joy to the recipient.
However, the more challenging pieces are frustrating, but so satisfying when I successfully complete them and when they are admired by others!
Going back to my title... "Am I a Fraud?", I question this from time to time, when I do draw inspiration from others, I absolutely don't copy anyone else's work, but when there is little creative input from me, such as making the basic pieces, I wonder if it is good enough, am I being creative enough, or could customers go to Argos or Amazon for something cheaper.
But then when I receive the positive and always glowing feedback from the customer or recipient it confirms to me that it is appreciated and then the imposter syndrome can go back to sleep again.
One main reason I do these basic pieces is so that I can include affordable jewellery in my collections and they go down incredibly well. In fact, I wear a basic piece everyday, whether it is a heart, a disc, a teardrop, a bar, I find them versatile and elegant. So personally, as a creative and a recipient, I'm happy, and I believe my customers are too.
So to answer my initial question... no, I am not a fraud but I believe it's totally normal to feel like this when you're in a community of incredibly creative people.
As per my last blog, if you've read this far. Thank you.
TWJ x