Amy Faust is another one of those Artisans that did not start out in a traditional way. First, she became certified as a Life Coach for Artists and a Canine Obedience Trainer. She had always dabbled in creating Jewelry and attended the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts after attaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of New York in New Paltz. I was taken by her incredible gift of creating beautiful jewelry from found objects, specifically beach glass. She was kind enough to answer a few questions for us.

Fine: How did you get from Life Coaching for Artists as well as Canine Obedience training to jewelry?

Faust: I received a BFA in Metal Arts in 1984 from the State University at New Paltz, New York. I did a course in coaching for artists in 2003 because I was interested in helping others acheive the same success that I was having with selling my work. The canine obedience was to fulfill a dream of working with animals and that overlapped my jewelry business for a few years.

Fine: Do you still do either of the above?

Faust: No, but I still consider doing them again.

Fine: At what point did you decide to incorporate recycled materials in your jewelry?

Faust: I have always used found objects and repurposed materials in my work. I am very passionate about recycling and taking care of the planet.

Fine: Who or what is your most meaningful inspiration?

Faust: I am inspired by animals, minimalist art and being outdoors and seeing the colors and shapes. If I find something on a walk that I can make jewelry with that is also inspiring.

Fine: Are there other materials besides precious metals and glass that you would like to use in your work?

Faust: I am using pottery with images of birds and farmland. I also use pebbles. I fantasize about how I can make things with recycled plastic that would transcend and transform them into something beautiful.

If anyone can make something from found objects, Amy can. Check out her work here.