Read an exclusive interview with Philadelphia-based artist, Gunli, as she recounts her artist journey, experiences with different mediums, and what inspires her jewelry designs.
1) What kind of environment did you come up in, and what kind of environment do you like to make for yourself today?
I grew up in a sort of confusing environment where I was supported in trying new things, such as art making, dance classes, sport teams, clubs etc. Pretty much any extra curricular activities they always supported in me trying them out if I peaked an ounce of interest in it, and if I wanted to stop doing it they were also ok with it. But when it came to social settings and my future career; what I was allowed to do with friends and what I wanted to major in was a completely different story. I was never allowed to sleep over any of my friends house, even my best friend who I grew up with, it was always her sleeping over my house (my first sleepover ever was when I was in 19 lol.) I had to be inside the house once the street lights came on while my friends were all outside hanging out still (╥‸╥). This all eventually made sense like my mom has told me repeatedly once I got older and seeing it from a parent’s perspective of wanting to protect their child as much as possible while also allowing some freedom to explore and grow.
A lot of this time was spent in my tiny 100 square feet room keeping myself entertained by watching a bunch of DIY videos, learning new arts and crafts, jamming out to 2000s music and learning all the lyrics, playing Sims and virtual world games like Habbo, WeeWorld, and Club Penguin.
It’s not too far off today on how I like my environment. It’s still the very same space I grew up in, it’s my safe space where I feel like I could do anything and be in my own world. I have so much things of my childhood just kind of tucked away in my small bedroom and now it’s filled with new trinkets & art that I have collected over the years and where I also make my jewelry!
2) What kind of stuff were you into when you were around thirteen? Any advice for thirteen-year-olds today?
I was very much into arts and crafts and always taking on new hobbies. You name it and I’ve probably dabbled at least a tiny bit in it. Around 13+ I really enjoyed pinterest mood boarding, painting, baking and always experimenting around with makeup looks in my bedroom just to take a selfie and take it all right offfff (kinda miss those “beauty guru” days). I spent a lot of my time just trying new art related hobbies but never mastering any of it and watching tons of makeup reviews and tutorials on Youtube and then trying to come up with my own looks as well.
My advice for thirteen year olds today is to not let your fear of failures hold you back from doing something, be open to failing and trying again by learning through them. Also don’t be so hard on yourself about disappointing your parents because at the end of the day you’re the one living it and you are the only one holding yourself back.
3) What's your stance on magic?
I believe that magic is all around us and a joyous feeling. Whether it’s admiring nature, sharing a small moment with another person, experiencing love, being able to feel emotions… I don't know, I think to be able to just see the beauty in the mundane or abundance around you is pretty magical as a whole.
4) What made you decide on pearls as one of your main brand materials?
I love that freshwater pearls are imperfect and uniquely shaped unlike traditional pearls that are perfectly round. I'm drawn to organic shapes and things that are shiny, especially if they’re iridescent! It feels very whimsical and comforting to me ^.^
5) When did you first realize you wanted to make jewelry, and what was your main inspiration?
I realized I wanted to make jewelry after taking an elective course in college for jewelry making. It actually took me a long while even after college to make jewelry more seriously because I lacked confidence and inspiration. Not to mention, it felt like it wasn’t something I could pursue seriously because I had to find a job in my field to make my parents happy that I made use of my degree and to be able to support them.
I’m inspired by the things around me from my childhood/personal experiences and things that bring me joy and comfort. Also being surrounded by other artists and engaging in genuine human connection with people has been a huge motivator in wanting to create jewelry more.
6) What was the first piece of jewelry you ever made, and where is it now?
My first ever jewelry piece besides I guess a beaded friendship bracelet that every child has made growing up, was in my jewelry class! We were assigned to make 2 rings (one of your choice and one simple ring band). I chose to make a cat ring because I love cats and always had one growing up. Sadly it’s a bit too tight and it's quite the chonker. I don’t wear it and have considered possibly commissioning to have my ring melted down and remade into a different design but I decided I wanted to keep it as a memory of my first lost wax cast ring made in college. I actually wear my ring band that I made as my everyday ring stack.
7) Any trend you wish would come back?
Vintage items! It’s already back but I love being able to see more unique pieces now that are just uniquely beautiful and timeless.
8) Any trend you wish would retire?
Low rise pants…. because I simply just don’t look as good as other people do in them *sigh*. I also wish fast fashion would retire. I think we should be more mindful about the things we buy and try to invest in quality pieces (if you have the means to do so) that will last longer, be better for not only your skin but the environment as well. But truly i’m just tired of being a stinky girl from all these synthetic fibers -.-
9) What's something you wish people engaged with more?
I wish people engaged in more wholesome and present activities. Go make some memories or learn something new about yourself/a loved one! <3
10) And, any shout outs?
Hehe, shoutout to the people who have supported me whether you appreciate my jewelry or have bought from me, it all means a lot. Most importantly the people who have encouraged me to do this, you know who you are ◡̈ especially to Linda from Casa Vida (https://casavida.style) who has given me a space to create/learn and sell my first pieces of jewelry ever!
Thank you for reading ( ੭ ˘ ³˘)੭°｡⋆♡‧₊˚
