“When I stand before God at the end of my life.
I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left. And could say: I used everything You gave me.” – Erma Bombeck
*Warning… long journal entry 😎
Hey there, I thought it might be a good idea to start the new year with a quick introduction of myself and my little business… for those who don’t already know me. Have a look and see if we have anything in common.
*I’m the mother of 2 beautiful millennials and been married to my best friend for over 30 years. I didn’t grow up in an artistic or creative background, and don’t really know where my passion for creative work came from.
*Although I’ve been an Artist for over 20 years, I see myself more of an Artisan these days. I’ve always been fascinated by the amazing skills of ancient blacksmiths and how they truly mastered their craft. Being trained as a modern metal-smith was naturally the next step in my own decade long journey with metal. I strive to be able to and enjoy doing the physical work at every stage of the process.
*“Blink Idees” is Afrikaans for “Shiny Ideas” which is symbolic of the metal that’s always polished to a brilliant shine. I started using the name in November 2011 to share my work on social media platforms without using my personal profile & constantly spamming my friends. At that stage I was already working with sheet metal for 4 years.
*In November 2017 I opened the 1st “Blink Idees” online shop. Since then I sold almost 100 unique individually hand crafted sterling silver, copper, brass and aluminium pieces over the internet to clients from right across the country.
*I don’t have any pets, but I treat the wild birds in my garden as if they’re my pets. Waking up to the sound of chirping birds is an awesome reward. I love the idea of living a slow, simple live, close to nature and consider myself very lucky to be able to hike in the forest and chase waterfalls whenever the opportunity arises.
*This might surprise you… but I don’t own a single handbag, I always make sure that the clothes that I buy, have big enough pockets to carry some cash, my credit card, cell phone and car keys. I figure that’s all I need.
*As a child my mom repeatedly told me not to wipe my hands on my pants… I’m still doing it… every day… I don’t know… maybe it’s just part of the occupation.
* I’ve build the current “Blink Idees” website myself as well as several others before that…wanting to get tech savvy / another creative outlet / maybe just because I’m a control freak.
*Top of my bucket list: revisiting the UK and doing and extensive castle tour through Scotland and Ireland… one can only dream.
*I truly admire all artists and creatives for their passion, skill and dedication. Imagine how awesome it would be if all of us could get together in person and combine our creativity in one big project. Wouldn’t that be fun?
♥.S.
Owner, Designer, Maker, Photographer, Admin, Packing, Shipping, Cleaning, Tea Girl… coming to think of it… I’m just the “Kiepie” at Blink Idees.
