Maria Gotta of Nest has always had a love of nature and of art, that led her to seek out wildflower meadows while hiking or heart-shaped rocks in creeks. She’s an avid outdoorswoman and nature enthusiast and that appreciation has transplanted itself into her art work.
She loves working with her hands while watching her visions come to life in the form of whimsical, delicate and distinctive pieces.
Maria is not only one of Hattie Rex’s featured artists but you will also be able to view and purchase her work at our next Art Walk event on Friday, September 13th.
She answered a few questions that will give readers a better idea of her work, her life, her inspirations and even her favorite place for a local bite!
1. What’s your favorite part about the work you do?
I love creating something that will make someone smile.
2. What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not working?
I thoroughly enjoy exploring the outdoors with my sweet pup, Stella, and my guy, Bill, and close friends, whether that's hiking, fishing, or cross-country skiing!
3. What does community mean to you?
To me, community is more than just the town in which one lives, but more so the people, love and support in which one surrounds themselves with (and gives back to) in return.
4. Who do you look up to for creative inspiration or guidance?
I have quite a few favorite jewelers that I am inspired by, as well as photographers. But the person I look up to for the most significant creative inspiration would be my mother.
Growing up, she was always creating something, whether in stained glass, painting, or photography. She also was very encouraging when any of us showed interest in a creative skill. I still bounce ideas off her from time to time, as well as take her advice to heart and put it to good use while creating something new.
5. Where is your favorite place to eat, get a drink, etc?
If we are referring to somewhere in town, my guy and I love to go to Glenn's in Livingston. Not only is Glenn a great person and bartender, and the staff super friendly, but the atmosphere is very laid back, and the patio is excellent in the summertime! Otherwise, there is nothing like being way up in the mountains, preferably by a creek, enjoying a well-earned snack and a stunning view!
6. What do you want your customers to know about your art?
I would like for them to know that nature is my inspiration in each piece of jewelry that I create.
All my flower and leaf pieces are made from an actual impression or a mold of that flower, leaf or petal. There's also a bit of love that goes into them all, as well. :)
7. How did you get started with your craft? What is your background like?
I've been making jewelry for at least 30 years now, always dabbling in different mediums. I stumbled upon Precious Metal Clay about three or so years ago when a favorite local jeweler of mine was offering classes in the medium. I was hooked!
8. What’s your favorite song right now?
I seriously love too many to choose just one! I enjoy most types of music; it all depends on my mood and what I'm doing at that moment.
9. Do you have any hidden talents?
Hmmm, well, as for a silly hidden talent, I can lip curl back and forth with both sides of my upper lip. As for a more serious talent, I used to be a pretty good (amateur) photographer, which I hope to get back into again.
10. What’s the #1 thing on your wishlist right now?
To catch up on some international traveling. We are hoping to head to Europe this coming year. Fingers crossed!