UAN: Tell me about your business…
My business is Eklektik Ekhos. I create through abstract, emotive, natural images. I use all natural materials and all of my pieces are handmade works of art. I create only with positive energy and inspiration. Because every piece is an art piece, all pieces an original, one of a kind design.
UAN: Are you a self taught jewelry designer?
I am a self taught artist and I’m currently taking a metalsmithing class to add to my technical palate. (UAN – WOW!)
UAN: What inspires your work?
Life inspires my pieces! The journey of life, the challenges, the questions and uncertainties, the beauty of creating beauty from very little….as many people do….are a few of my inspirations. I’m currently working on a 4 part collection series. The collections are inspired by my friends and myself. The current collection is ‘Nkenje’ and I’m working on my next collection inspired by the Goddess vibe.
Every piece is different. Some pieces may take an hour, others may take 5-12 hours!! My pieces are very detailed so it all depends on the piece.
UAN: What’s your favorite creation?
I honestly don’t have a favorite piece. They all have their own energy, storyline, reason for being created. There is one right now that really shows my growth and evolution as an artist; the piece, Sage, the feather and copper necklace with the turquoise, amber, and coral. It took about 12 hours to create from beginning to end. It is just a reflection of the dedication and energy I put into my work and how much I believe in what I do. J
UAN: In your opinion, what makes you stand out from the rest?
My jewelry stands apart from others because my pieces are works of art and not just jewelry. They are wearable sculptures that I create with emotion, passion, and all by hand. You are wearing a piece of art! I’ve found ways to communicate my beliefs and who I am through a physical manifestation. Also, within each piece, there is a story and a piece of who I am and that evolution.
UAN: Do you have a jewelry designer idol? If so who?
I actually don’t have a jewelry designer idol!!!
UAN: If your jewelry could be seen anywhere or on anyone, who would it be?
If my work could be featured anywhere, I’m not sure where I would want it to be BUT I definitely know who I would LOVE to wear my work…..Solange, Solange, Solange. I am in love with her style and personal expression and how she carries herself. She is definitely number one on my list! (UAN – she’s on mine as well, that girl’s got style!)
UAN: Where can we find you?
I can be found on: Twitter, on my page , and on tumblr
NATURAL HAIR!!!!
Douriean, artist behind Eklektik Ekhos, is not only an amazing artist but she’s also natural….Here is her natural hair story…
I’ve been natural all of my life except 9th grade when I thought it would’ve been easier to manage while I was on the swim team at my high school (TERRIBLE IDEA, EPIC FAIL). Other than that one year, I’ve always loved my hair. My mom never put a relaxer in my hair and after that one year, I thought that if other ethnic groups can wear their hair naturally, then I should be able to as well! My high school junior year is when I began to wear my curly fro. Although I feel like I’ve seen many people with natural hair, especially short hair cuts and locs, I think the natural scene in New Orleans is growing. I see people accepting their hair more and I’m happy for them!
I don’t look at being natural as a journey. It’s just part of who I am. Just like my nose, toenails, ears, any other feature on my body. BUT I had a large fro and cut it last year and I’m always calling my friends brainstorming ideas to change the hair color
When I was younger, there were lots of people who used to tell me I need to ‘Do something’ with my hair. I didn’t care much. Now, people love it! I think people not only like the style but just the fact that I don’t care!! It’s a reflection of who I am and I’m comfortable with it.
My advice for other people with natural hair is this. Now that there has been a revolution of acceptance for the natural gift that grows out of our head, let’s start focusing on our overall well being! Our health! And the hair will reflect what we do to our bodies!
I don’t have an idol BUT Shingai Shoniwa, the singer and bassist of The Noisettes, has the most awesome style and hair. I’m in love with her updo.
Thank you so much Douriean for sharing your story and introducing my readers to Eklektik Ekhos!
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