Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Beatty.
Hi Erica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was living in the very rural mountains of Humboldt, CA in 2016, when it rained for seven months straight and there wasn’t much to do. So, I decided to play with making jewelry out of beads and some wire I had. That was all it took. From there I started watching YouTube videos and took a few classes to learn how to work with torches and metal. In 2018 my husband and I decided to move back to Utah, where we are both originally from, and I continued to grow my metalsmithing skills. In 2022 I quit my job and went full-time into my business, Zaffera Studios. At the beginning I just wanted to make pretty things, but over time I continued to have a gut feeling that it was really about more.
I am native Hawaiian and growing up in the diaspora, in Utah, I didn’t really know much about the culture and history of where I come from. When I started to listen to my intuition, I realized there was a link between my art and re-connecting with my roots. Now my designs are inspired by the history, flora and fauna of Hawaii. The pieces that I’m most know for feature a traditional textile called Kapa Cloth, which creates a truly unique look in my jewelry.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Building a business is not for the faint of heart. There has been a lot of doubts, some imposter syndrome and wondering if I’m on the right path. I think, as an artist, when you turn your craft into a business it’s because you love creating and want to share that with the world. What I wasn’t totally prepared for was that you have to learn bookkeeping, marketing, inventory, etc. When you’re a one person show, you have to wear all the hats!
It’s also a lot of putting yourself out there every day and not always knowing how it’s going to turn out. But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love what I do, and this business has helped me grow in so many areas of my life.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have a jewelry business called Zaffera Studios. I make everything by hand in my home studio using sterling silver, gold-filled and gold metals along with gemstones, pearls and Hawaiian textiles. I place a huge emphasis on sustainability within my business using ethically sourced stones and recycled metal. I also create in small batches and one of a kind pieces to minimize waste. Drawing from my native Hawaiian heritage, I specialize in culturally inspired jewelry that carries mana (energy) and empowers the wearer in their every day life. I’m most known for my kapa cloth jewelry that is truly unique to me. Kapa cloth is a traditional Hawaiian textile that I incorporate in many of my pieces. I source the cloth from O’ahu, where my family lives, and hand dye it myself. The texture and colors lend to my eye catching jewelry.
I am most proud of my art and how it has cultivated connections with people, as well as help educate. By telling the stories of my Hawaiian heritage through my jewelry, I’ve not only learned so much myself, but I’m able to bring my customers on the journey with me.
What sets me apart is my creativity and designs, customers are constantly expressing how they don’t see pieces like mine anywhere else.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was a very creative and imaginative kid. I loved to write, something I still enjoy doing, and I actually made jewelry as a child as well. I made hemp and bead jewelry that I sold even when I was younger. I was a very shy child and enjoyed being alone and creating. I did love hanging with my siblings, playing outside and making up our own little worlds. As I got older I was on swim team and loved performing in choirs from elementary and on through high school.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zafferastudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zafferastudios/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zafferastudios
