December 10, 2015
Delusions of Grandeur
Maker Spotlight
One of our favorites, Keren Kemp of Delusions of Grandeur will be bringing her awesome jewelry to our LA Holiday Fair this weekend! Everyone, rejoice!
The name Delusions of Grandeur came out of a very specific conversation I had with my cousin and cousin-in-law in 2010 while wandering around a beautiful interiors shop on a fancy street in Los Angeles. At the time we were all “figuring out” our creative/career paths and declared we all had delusions of grandeur, but hadn’t yet found a focus for them. About 6 months later I started the business and the name felt like the perfect fit.
Have you always been passionate about design?
Yes, I’ve always been creating in some form or another. I was just recently reminded that when I was a kid I was making and selling earrings to my teachers in the 5th grade.
When/Why did you start working in this particular craft/field?
I studied jewelry/metal arts in college… Put it on the back burner for about 10 years. Became a graphic designer, worked at a bunch of not so interesting jobs, then got back to it. Crazy how the full-circle thing works!
What do you think sets your designs apart from others?
I find that there is a fine balance between over and under designing. I try to keep that in check by keeping things simple, quirky with a sense of sophistication. My process is pretty unconventional and I’m always experimenting with new techniques.
Have you had any major failures? If so, what were some important insights gained?
Oof, daily. The important thing is to keep learning from them and not getting discouraged. I think that’s the hardest part of running a small business.
Have you sacrificed anything to create your business? If so, what was it, and do you have any regrets?
Choosing not to have a steady income with benefits, carefree weekends, and payed vacation sometimes feels like a sacrifice but working for anyone else just isn’t my jam. I have never regretted going down this path, I love the freedom way too much!
What has been your proudest/favorite moment since creating your business?
I love spotting jewelry I’ve created on someone walking down the street, or in a random place. It always puts a smile on my face.
How does the city you live in influence your work?
Honestly, it doesn’t really. I tend to find more inspiration when I leave Los Angeles.
What valuable experience/knowledge did you have before starting your business?
Over the years I’ve had all sorts of jobs and worn may hats. I’ve applied what seems to have worked for others and tried to stay away from what hasn’t.
What made you take this leap into being your own boss?
It’s always seemed crazy to me to put every bit of your energy and talent into someone else’s dream. I’ve always been an all or nothing sort of person, so this really was the only option!
What are some inspirations for your work?
The High Desert, freeway systems, and staring into space definitely influence but mostly I find inspiration from the most RANDOM mundane things.
What are some tips or suggestions you’d like to offer to fellow makers?
Just do it, take the leap and don’t look back. The hardest part is getting started.
