Francesca has been creating jewelry for over 30 years and creating ‘stuff’ since she was 16. Previously a clothing designer, she has always collected interesting stones and pearls and has a particular love of turquoise, as those who wear her jewelry will attest. Her work is characterized by a sense of adventure and exploration and inspired by nature, love and people. This comes from her love of imagining the lives of those who wear her work. As an artist her biggest challenge is finding the connection. So far, she loves sharing her journey with the women who are lucky enough to wear her jewelry made from beautiful materials.

Excerpts from podcast:

1. I have been so blessed with opportunity and by being in the right place at the right time. It’s important to recognize that this is not true for everyone.
2. You spoke about how challenging it was for you as a single parent and that is absolutely correct. I always worked part time, but was fortunate to have partners where I could do that, and where I didn’t get confused about trying to monetize the art - whatever form that took. Sometimes I get paid to be a creative consultant. Sometimes I made stuff and found a way to sell it - and a lot of that was by being in the right place and moving with it.
3. I really dislike the lack of distinction between making art and “being successful” about it. It seems really important to come to terms with- and this is ongoing - about what success means. Art is hard work - not always, but enough of the time that it’s important to recognize what it takes.
4. Maybe the real expense is the outlay of energy it requires.Thinking it up, refining the idea, exploring the idea, testing it in the process of making it, and then figuring out what to do with it all takes energy.Marketing and selling takes a lot of work!
5. I think people have done a huge disservice by not recognizing this. Also - a lot of art is not really viable commercially - either for money or for recognition.If you are stuck following those things, you miss the opportunity to think up and make art.
6. What is my advice? Only I can say what’s worked for me-Cultivate a quiet brain—Find a passion—Pursue it for its own sake - the questions about monetizing it or getting recognition from it are separate. If they are what is really important to you, figure out how to get those things--It may never be a package deal - sometimes you get bits of things
7. I don’t have just one message for a brand.—My hope is that people may get interested in something I put out there and it sparks a conversation. —I’m always looking for good connections.—I hope my message is ultimately one of love.
8. Love yourself, love the ideas, love the time to make things or not, love it if you connect with someone else in love. Especially love it if you help them move through their lives a little bit better.

To connect with Francesca follow her on Instagram @flkjewelry.

To learn more about Jean and the Be Joyful podcast visit www.bejoyful.love.