Well, technically Paradise City refers to it as "finalist" in the Fashion and Jewelry category—but to me that's a major win! Out of 200 amazing artists and crafters, only six were chosen (3 winners and 3 finalists). I feel so incredibly honored. Click on the awards image at right to read about me and the other winners.
But what does winning this award mean? For starters, and in all honesty, it doesn't mean I'm the best jewelry maker in the bunch. When it comes to art of any kind, it's so subjective and there are so many amazing artists and jewelry designers who have a lot more years under their belts. What this award does means to me though, quite literally, is that most people who voted in the fashion and jewelry category, chose me at this particular time. And that's no small beans!
Winning any award is a confidence boost on so many levels. We all want the street cred that getting an award gives. It's one thing to win an award because an art "expert" (with their trained eye and given biases) favors your work above the rest. But it's another thing to win the attention of a large audience! Personally, I favor the latter because it's you, and all the other members of my audience, that matters most to me.
Thanks so much for those who voted for me, and for your support!
Nancy
P.S. I'll be exhibiting at Paradise City Northampton October 9–11, 2021 and also Paradise City Marlborough November 19–21, 2021. I hope to see you there!