Creativity – In the Studio With Meredith Anne Sutton
In this new series on The Southern C, meet some great Southern creative minds – the artists, designers and makers that are shaping our landscape with their vision and ingenuity. Go behind the scenes to see where they work, what they are working on, the path that led them to this moment and just what made them “take the leap” from idea to doing.
The subjects may vary but most will share many of the paradoxical traits of creative individuals – they daydream, observe, ask big questions, people watch, seek new experiences, view life as an opportunity for self-expression, take risks and bounce back all while following their true passions. We hope you will be inspired as we spread the creativity that abounds in our region because, according to Einstein, it’s contagious and this is one thing we are happy to spread!
Meet Meredith Anne Sutton, Art Jeweler
Meredith Anne Sutton is an independent art jeweler in Savannah, GA and has been designing metalwork jewelry for nearly a decade and began her career after graduating from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in metals and jewelry . Her style uniquely balances industrial and feminine influences and reflects her love for found objects, including vintage pieces, architectural finds and hardware procured from old furniture. Recently, she has begun working with brass which keeps her designs clean, simple and stylish while the affordable cost of the material allows her the freedom to experiment with each piece. She also works with other mediums like sterling silver, 18k gold, bronze, and acrylic to present pieces apropos for the most discerning and mature woman to the chic young trendsetter
Describe a day in your work space or studio:
Typical is not really a reality in my life. I always seem to have a list of new projects on the table. I do take comfort in the constants in my studio life; good music, coffee and my dog Sophie keeping me company.
How has your background influenced your work?
Both my mother and father have a beautiful collection of jewelry. Which may have led me to appreciate the quality of good design. But I feel I discovered my love for making jewelry was in college after taking a metals class as an elective. At the time I was a graphic design major at Savannah College of Art and Design. Once I got my hands on a torch there was no turning back.
Favorite blogs or websites that inspire you or your work?
I don’t really look at blogs or websites for inspiration for my jewelry. However, when I do have time to sit down I enjoy:
What was the catalyst to “take the leap” from idea to doing?
The idea pushes me to that leap. I am such a visual thinker that the end result becomes clearer as the project progresses. I rarely sketch my ideas. They always seem to make more sense as I’m creating the
Best and worst part of being a “creative”
I take great joy in completing a challenging project. Seeing it unfold from concept to a wearable piece or object. It’s that instant gratification that makes my heart beat faster. I guess the worst part would be having my creativity rushed. Sometimes the design needs to evolve at its own pace.
Speed Round – Five Favorites
Artist(s): I have way too many favorites! Here are a few – Luke Buchanan, Marcus Kenney, Katherine Sandoz, Betsy Cain, Monica Cook
Book: The Rooftop Beekeeper by Megan Paska
Indulgence(s): beer, honey, tacos
Journey/Trip/Escape: Ossabaw Island
Quote: “Adornment is often the outward expression of that thin space between the realities of what we live and the realities of what we invent.” – Kristen Beeler
Look up Leigh Strong who is so creative in her own way and will be at your upcoming conference!!! She is the BEST designer, architect , color enthusiast and just has a fabulous eye for detail and beautiful things!!! Anything she touches or influences turns to gold. She definitely has the vision of designing an “old space” into something fabulous even on a budget!!!! I would love for her to have a “break” and make it big!!! She also recently helped Two Friends store on SSI with their renovation and design…. she is easy to work with and such the Southern Lady!!! Thank you