Team Interview.... Meet Liad Wischnia – Nemeth

 Liad Wischnia-Nemeth of "By Liad"

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

I have been working with metal clay since 2006 when I took weekend class in Pierce College , CA. I immediately fell in love with the craft. Back then, silver was much less expensive. I used to make "gifts" for everyone, and then started to sell my pieces in some stores in the Los Angeles area, Rodeo Drive etc….

I then wanted to expand and opened my website byLiad.com which opened a window for personalization and custom orders all around the world.

I'm Rio Grande certified & have experience with PMC, Hadar's clays, Goldie and Noble brands clays.

My other half, is a programmer and before I knew it he got himself a "tool" to make me tools.

We developed textures and molds which brought us to the idea of making engraved photo jewelry. This was a big hit and we specializing in 3D photo jewelry.

In 2010 we made a big change in our life. We moved from California to Israel (where I was born & raised). At the same year we opened our wholesale store www.MetalClays.com We ship worldwide from KY .

Besides metal clay supply & tools we are developing our own signature products such as Seamless Ring Mold, Bezel Builder, USB / Flash drive kits, custom stamps and more………

 Have any special hobbies?
I love to go for nature hikes, riding bikes, cooking, and photography.

What is your business name and website address?
www.byLiad.com

www.PictureJewelry.com

www.MetalClays.com

How did you find out about metalclay and then start working with it?

I used to make beaded jewelry and wanted to go forward and experience other media.  So I found a PMC class in 2006 in a local college magazine.

What drives you to make jewelry?

Sitting and creating is my therapy. I can sit hours, make, roll, cut and create.

Are you disciplined or do you go with the flow and work when you feel like it?

When emails are piling up and orders are coming through, which have to be completed by birthday, anniversary, holiday or other events there is no time to go with the flow. I wish there was some more time in the day. So the answer is yes, I'm very disciplined. 

Do you do any other type of art?

Photography.

What is your art sensibility - precise or organic?

As for myself I prefer the organic, uneven look. But when custom order come I try to be as precise as I can.

When did you feel you had more confidence in your abilities?

I still don't have confidence.  I have SO much to learn!!!!!

What is your favorite tool for working with metalclay?

Needle tool

Where do you work?
In my home studio.

What is your favorite thing to make?

Rings

Do you ever add commercial components?

No, besides jump rings.

How do you work, and when? (for ex. assembly line or one at a time)

One piece at a time / Custom orders

Do you have any kind of creative ritual?

I look at the mess on my table. I try to arrange my tools and then I make more mess.  

How do you hold onto ideas that you don't have time to pursue NOW!

I usually sketch them on a piece of paper or write a memo on my IPhone.

Do you ever use a sketchbook?

No

Do you ever teach classes and where?

No

Do you make a living at it?

Yes, on good months.

Do you do custom orders?

Yes, Most of my work is custom.

What are you working on currently?

New tool prototype testing using magnets.

What's next on your agenda to make?

I'm working on creating magnetic findings and jewelry / accessories for Men.

How do you make time for everything you want to do?

There is not enough time in the day for me. 

Anything else you'd like to tell us about yourself?

I'm a mother of 2 lovely kids (13, 9) and also a mother for 2 dogs and a cat named Sushi.

I would love to have the time to actually teach some metal clay. I think I'm shy and therefore I never pushed myself doing it.

Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us, Liad! 
written by Christine Street of Chocolate and Steel