Check Out Sydne’ Kelter’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydne’ Kelter.

Hi Sydne’, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was a teacher, and when we went on strike, I had small children. I wondered what am I gonna do? My mother suggested I do beadwork. So I started my business, Jordan’s Jewels and Things. I started making eyeglass holders, and I sold them in LA Eyeworks on Melrose. Next I started selling them in other little shops and at craft shows, holiday and music events.
I mostly sold to fellow teachers during holidays; it was a seasonal side job as I was a full time teacher for the Los Angeles
Unified School District.
As I mentioned, I started making eyeglass holders, but then people asked me if I could make earrings, necklaces and bracelets. So I began to make all of the above. Later, there was a shift in my assignment on my job. I had time to paint, and I began to Draw & Paint in my free time. After I gifted all of my family and close friends a piece of art, I began to sell my art.
Now I do pop ups and events and sell online and anywhere I can. I have no store.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’ve been relatively successful selling my art, especially my prints. The problem is not having the funds to promote my art. Having a good website and all that costs. I also realize that I really don’t want to mass produce. So putting stuff online is difficult. Because I may not have that particular bead to recreate the same item so it’s difficult to post things to sell. Most items are unique. I also make ceramics. My favorite artwork is by commission. I love to please with my art creations.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love languages and culture. I was a professional language teacher for high school and middle school. I also love to make art and I have always created things since childhood. Now I am more focused on painting, ceramics and my bead work.
I enjoy collaborating and creating art for people. I’m proud of my creations. especially if i’m making it for someone and they love it.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Art is universal. Art is soothing and possibly healing. Art can make you very happy and feel good. Art can bring memories to your heart. Sharing art is very important. But i’ve learned that everybody doesn’t value things the same way. I’ve learned that not all art is appreciated. I’ve also learned that people can be wishy washy in what they like and what they want.
That affects you as an artist. For example, i’ve had people ask me to custom make things, and then they don’t have enough money to pay for it, or they changed their mind after you’ve made it. And not because they didn’t like it, but for other reasons. But overall, i’ve learned that art brings joy. Art is amazing.

Pricing:

• Most items are reasonably priced, depending on materials
• Prints range $10 + depending on size, matting, frame
• Eyeglass holders $10-20 depends on bead selection
• Ceramic leaves $35
• Prices include time & materials.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordans.jewels.things/
• Facebook: Sydne Kelter

Image Credits
Bluewater Clay Ceramic Studio & San Pedro Art Association in Crafted.