Featured Etsy Artist - Dharma Designs

Jasmine Tea at the Garden Necklace and Earrings Set

Do you enjoy jewelry and photos with an Oriental flavor? Then you simply must check out the beautiful designs of Wendy Baylis of Portland, Oregon, at Dharma Designs on etsy. Wendy says she hopes "to promote global peace, acceptance, and understanding of all cultures and faiths through art."

She offers a variety of items including necklaces, earrings, bracelets and photos and plans to add cards, paintings and teas. She says, "I have always had a deep love and respect for other cultures and faiths, particularly those of Asia. I think it really comes across in my work."

Wendy works full time in the semi conductor industry. She explains, "Needless to say, it's not that creative, so my art is my escape, my sanctuary. I also have Fibromyalgia, but I refuse to let it get in the way of having a full and happy life. I've been known to go on five-hour hikes and plan to trek the Himalayas some day."

In addition to creating jewelry, Wendy does pencil portraits, paintings and cards as a hobby - and is writing a fictional novel about a medical evacuation helicopter crew in the Vietnam War. She explains, "My main passion is writing and drawing/painting. I'm also working on a black and white series of portraits of American soldiers in the Vietnam War."

Wendy shares some suggestions for fellow Etsy sellers: "Don't be afraid to focus on your pieces when taking pictures. I used to use lots of props to make it look interesting, but it really detracts from your work. My first pictures were absolutely dreadful!"

A look through her shop shows that she's definitely learned to take great photos. Here's one of my favorites: Kathmandu Turquoise and Silver Earrings