While I was growing up, what I wanted to be once I arrived at “grown up” changed… often. Whether I was dreaming of becoming a lawyer (I liked to argue), a doctor (blood makes me vomit and vomit makes me pass out), a hair stylist (numerous bald Barbie dolls made clear this was not my calling), a race car driver (I simply liked to drive fast) or a teacher (children frighten me)… I was always plagued by a constant and gnawing obsession. Art and Style. Whether creating a painting, a song, or a look, I was always creating. In hindsight, I spent many years believing my most cherished dreams were unobtainable. They were just dreams. What I wanted to be when I grew up couldn’t be an artist or a fashion designer or a rockstar because those things weren’t practical. They weren’t possible.

Billy Joel said: “Those who have expressed doubts and misgivings about their ability to live this kind of life shouldn’t try, because being a musician is not something you chose to be, it is something you are.”

Replace “musician” with “whatever” and there you have it, my own personal truth. I had my first easel by the age of 7 and my first potter’s wheel by age 8. I fell in love with my first pair of shoes when I was 4. They were these dreamy purple suede clogs with earthy brass embellishments and I just HAD to have them… but I digress.

And so it goes and as I’ve grown, I’ve realized that these things told a tale of facets very much intertwined in my personality: Art, Creativity, Design, Style, Fashion. They are all the same to me – or at least they come from the same place. The trick for me was finding my own personal style. This would become my greatest challenge, and also my greatest reward, in all of my creative endeavors.

Stay with me, I’m getting to it.

I think at some point most creative types ask themselves one or more of the following questions: Once I find my own personal style, then what? How do I improve upon it? How do I grow? How do I move beyond a drought or push myself beyond my comfort zone?

I am always on the lookout for a Muse. Every now and then I find someone who has done all the right things but added a twist I never thought of. Something that makes me go: “Wow.” or “I wish I had thought of that!” or maybe even “I have no talent.” but, what is it that separates the true artist from the hobbyist? I believe a true artist must create; must push themselves to be better. A true artist is driven to take what they’ve seen and go back to their drawing board to apply that inspiration to their own personal style.

Ahhh… The Muse. Where would I be without the Muses in my life? I shudder at the thought.

And here it is: My newest favorite Muse, my latest inspirational Icon: John Wind of Maximal Art.

Finding this Philadelphia based designer was like a heavens parting moment for me. His line of Modern Vintage inspired jewelry has that perfect mix of elegance, whimsy and well… just plain pretty. Check out some of my favorite eye candy from his latest collections:

The Midsummer Night Dream Collage Necklace from the John Wind Jewelry Box Collection. Wouldn't this look FABULOUS with your favorite summer dress?

Sparkling Crystal Runway Flower Collar - Femininity with an edge. LOVE. THIS.

3 Strand Jeweled Glass Pearl Collar - Classic elegance.

Pearl Coil Bracelet

Classic Pom Pom Earrings from the Society Gal Collection.

And if the sheer fabulosity of John Wind’s designs aren’t enough for you then how about this: A designer who is not only brilliant but socially conscious. John Wind has recently launched a fundraiser to support AIDS research, in which 50% of the proceeds from sales of signed, dated, limited edition items are being donated to benefit the essential HIV/AIDS services of ActionAIDS and Mazzoni Center.

Read more: John Wind AIDS Jewelry Project

I, for one, prefer to purchase my adornments from people who still believe in bettering society; those who know that there is something out there beyond personal gain. People who believe that the essence of business is in connecting with people and giving back.

When I grow up, I think I’d like to be some of what John Wind already is.

About John Wind
Philadelphia-based designer John Wind began making jewelry while studying at London’s Slade School of Art in the 1980s, a time of Culture Club and the Thompson Twins. Wind found early inspiration in the vintage shops along Portobello Road, and would rush home after weekend scavenger hunts to glue the bits and pieces into big, funky brooches to wear out to clubs. It was in London that he also fell in love with Victorian jewelry – beautiful pieces that seem to convey love, passion and friendship. He founded Maximal Art in his hometown of Philadelphia in 1985 and describes its style as Modern/Vintage. His work has since been featured in Oprah’s Gift Guide in “O” magazine, “Vogue” and “In Style,” and is in the permanent collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris.