Joanne McKay

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My name is Joanne McKay and I was born in Lima. My father was a fan of painting and, when I was a child, he made art fun by taking me to galleries.

I studied graphic design and painting. Unfortunately, we had financial problems and I had to find work. Thanks to my mother's jewelry studies, I had the necessary tools to work and learn this art, which finally helped pay for my education.

When I began making jewelry, I looked at it only as way to make money. With time, I discovered jewelry was also a means to develop my creativity and started to enjoy it. I decided to perfect my technique by taking courses and attending workshops.

Some of the qualities that helped me succeed were curiosity and persistence since this craft — like any other — teaches you by trial and error. This path hasn't been easy and I've had some difficult moments. I think to get ahead, all artisans need to create what they like the most. Today, I work with silver, bronze, leather, cubic zirconia, gems, gold-plated metals and I also use recycled corn-based plastic made on a 3D printer.

I like all kinds of arts, especially Peruvian craft work, which inspires me and is a source of recreation.

At the moment, I work alone to design and develop each piece. You have given me the opportunity for the world to get to know my work, which motivates me to keep creating my designs, discovering new materials and techniques that enrich my creations. I think any artisan's or designer's contributions should be valued, and those of us who venture out on our own open doors for others.