Our second winner of the FirstBank scholarship for the fall market is Haley Cassidy of Ornate Chaos Design. Haley is a metalsmith who creates edgy and unique jewelry right here in Denver. We recently asked her about her experience being an artist in Denver, and about what she’s most looking forward to as a first time Horseshoe vendor on October 3rd.
I have always worn and been mildly obsessed with jewelry. I started saying to myself ” I like this necklace, but I wish it had this or didn’t have that”. I decided that I had several of my own ideas and it was time to start creating. It started with simply assembling necklaces with found objects and different things I would collect. It has evolved into a full fledged metal smithing studio inside my apartment. It is like a little oasis inside my home where I constantly get to create and evolve my craft.
Denver is such a great place for makers and artisans. The community welcomed me with open arms, and not only were people receptive but helpful and offered little tidbits of experiences and advice. I think we live in a unique community where there is not only a plethora of creative people, but it is also a city that is receptive to small business and creatives. They crave it and are enthusiastic about supporting it.
I have gone to 4 or 5 Horseshoe markets since I’ve lived here, as I have a friend who does the art show circuit in Denver. I have seen how awesome the crowd is at Horseshoe and how excited the attendees are about the art and atmosphere. I am so excited to chat with other makers and gain some perspective from “seasoned veterans” of Horseshoe. I can’t wait to show people what I have been working on!
