Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthe Wosczyna.
Anthe, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve expressed myself artistically as far back as I can remember. Experimenting with different mediums fascinated me and fueled my desire to create paintings, beadwork and drawings on a daily basis. My parents encouraged my interests as well. How many 8-year-olds had a drafting table in their room? I loved nothing better than drawing in my room and listening to albums on my record player.
School broadened my artistic horizons as well as my interests in creative writing, art history and literature. I studied graphic art at the Art Center College of Design and received my film school and art history degrees from Loyola Marymount University. Working in the television industry, I was drawn to law, research and writing.
I transitioned into a career in law and really enjoyed the challenges that this encompassed. After 14 years, I felt that it was time to return to my creative roots.
Working with my hands again appealed to me and I became a ceramic artist who specialized in porcelain miniature vessels. I also started experimenting with beadweaving techniques, design and enticing color combinations and my Little Muse Designs jewelry line was born. Creating my unique designs and completing all phases of my jewelry’s creation challenges me in ways that constantly fuels my interest.
My work is shown at galleries and is available at juried art shows and select retail locations. Most importantly, I love interacting with everyone who enjoys my work!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’m no stranger to hard work but what challenges me the most is balancing creating my jewelry, participating in art shows and running my business (the nuts and bolts aspects of paperwork, marketing, ordering supplies, completing wholesale orders, photography and maintaining my web presence). Phew! It can be daunting but I’m very lucky to have the support of my husband and friends who lend their hands to help me with the business aspect.
Balancing business life with personal life is another challenge. Socializing with friends and family, exercising, gardening, eating well and laughing a lot stoke the fires that fuel my creativity!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Little Muse Designs was created eight years ago after I began designing a unique style of beaded jewelry from tiny Japanese glass beads also known as seed beads. I’m drawn to making colorful, intricate Mandala patterns and comfortable and thoroughly wearable jewelry. Each Mandala is woven one bead at a time with a very fine needle and a thread so durable that each piece is heirloom quality and will last for many years.
I collect many glass seed beads in my travels as well as pearls, gemstones, Austrian crystals and vintage beads. I also use sterling silver, 14kt gold-fill and niobium (hypoallergenic) metals in my work.
The process of creating my circular pattern jewelry is calming yet focusing. Mandala is the Sanskrit word for community and unity. I spend many hours creating unique and eye-catching jewelry that many people tell me that they’ve never seen before. I also love designing items in custom colorways for my customers as well as bridal jewelry. Whatever colors you love, I can make a special piece just for you!
I’m most proud that I design and create all of my jewelry myself. The artisan, fine-crafted approach to my work is very important to me. Everyone should be able to afford and enjoy a special pair of earrings, necklace, ring or bracelet.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up a quiet and studious child, my outlet for self-expression was drawing people and the world around me. I was a voracious reader who loved nothing better than to visit the library. I also loved writing stories, poems and skits. When I wasn’t drawing or reading, baking was my favorite pastime.
Pricing:
- Single Mandala Necklace $38—$45
- Drop Earrings $35
- Picot Drop Earrings $42
- Heart Mandala Necklace $34
- Dancing Pearl Necklace $130
- Ring $42–$60
- Double Mandala Earrings $82
Contact Info:
- Website: www.littlemusedesigns.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlemusedesigns/
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/LittleMuseDesigns
- Twitter: https://Twitter.com/littlemusedsgns
Image Credit:
Zazu Faure
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
