Featured Artist: Kathie Stamou, Accessory Artist

So, what’s your story? I am from New York, and currently live in Southern England. I spent 5 years in Dublin, Ireland before moving here and used the opportunity to travel extensively to collect materials and inspiration for my unusual designs. I have been knitting and crocheting for as long as I can remember usually working without a pattern to create fabulous scarves, hats, art pieces and more. My interests have evolved into making jewellery, combining my knitting and crocheting skills with the eclectic materials I find in my travels throughout the world. Crystals from Prague, fine floss from Paris, and beads from Spain are some examples. I love to use unexpected materials and you should not be surprised to find, plumbing washers, curtain rings and fishing rope in my designs. I also try to use recycled materials whenever possible and have started writing little poems to accompany each piece. (my brain never takes a break!). Each piece comes with my signature crocheted ring attached.

How did you get started creating your artwork? I originally started making handbags ornamented with silk flowers, but I have a short attention span and as soon as some new material catches my eye, I am off on a new collection. I have moved from bags, to bulky knits to fine knit jewellery. I have been stuck on jewellery for quite some time, but constantly change mediums.

Where does your inspiration come from? Mostly the materials but sometimes I think of something first and then find the materials to execute it.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I see myself having a successful one of a kind jewellery business.

Where do you sell your work? Mostly on Etsy.
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Who is your favorite artist? I love Banksy for his irreverent style and Phillip Treacy for his outright creativity.

What is your favorite song and by whom? Mmm hard one, it changes all the time. Right now I’m loving Empire State of Mind II by Alecia Keyes. Homesick!

If you were stranded on a deserted island, with your family, what 5 things would you want to have with you? My knitting needles, some yarn, my laptop, some gooey chocolate brownies, sketch pad.