There is something special about using your own hands to make something from nothing. I have been making all sorts of things since I was a little girl. I learned to weld from my father, and discovered a love of jewelry from my grandmother. Even though I draw and paint I feel as if metal is in my blood and takes a precedent over all other mediums.
I started making and selling jewelry at age 18 and participated in 35 shows a year. My Child Artwork Jewelry line was featured on HGTV, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Rosie Magazine, and was also featured in Victoria Magazine where I was presented with the National Entrepreneur of the Year Award. I am certified in Art with the state of CT K-12. My students have been awarded 42 gold medals in the state of CT and also six national titles for their metal work and artwork, ages 11-18. When I am not teaching art to middle school students I am creating and selling my jewelry and pastels locally and online and participating in art shows.
My pastels can be seen here: www.leeskalkos.com