Just in case you want
to know...
Who is Kelley Moseley?
Kelley Moseley is a rare gem. Since the inception
of K~FLEYE designs in 2003, Kelley Moseley captivated the attention of her audience with original jewelry designs portraying
the aesthetic quality often portrayed in museum quality sculptures and high couture fashion. The synthesis
of precious stones with silver, gold, copper and brass display Moseley's confident craftsmanship and years of visual
perfections & imperfections.
How/ why did you start designing jewelry?
I needed to buy a couch. I was fresh out of college (Bradley
University B.S., Broadcast Journalism) and was working two jobs (Radio station WLS 89.9 & film company) and I'd
just moved into a new apartment. I didn't have enough money but I had to have this red couch. I was always
creative and great with with my hands. I read a lot of books, talked to a ton of artist, read some more books, purchased
the tools and materials, made some jewelry and K~Fleye was born.
How long have you been designing jewelry? circa 2003.
What inspired
you in the beginning?
Inspiration
was born from the lack of innovative jewelry within surrounding boutiques and main stream jewelers. I wanted
to create something different, a collection of jewelry that would inspire and move people to be empowered about their potential,
their beauty and the beauty in others.
What inspires you now?
You. Life. I am a reflection of you, the people I meet, the foods I eat, the places I travel, the music I experience.
I create one of a kind items and that is the story of my life: one-of-a-kind. I was born and raised on the west side of Chicago
and in my short life I've seen and experienced a lot. I am thankful for it all good and bad because those experiences
has fueled every 'peace' of jewelry I've ever made. It has not all been perfect but as I continue to grow
I find the beauty in everything. I've learned to find a way or make one.
Being an African American woman,
what obstacles have you faced along your journey?
While significant obstacles did not come from extraneous sources, the real
obstacle was the internal battle between my faith regarding future success and the fear of failure. Fear kills and I
am still living. Every day is a new day and I am ready for the challenge.
How would you describe yourself?
Your work?
I am an artist
and being an artist requires one to create work that is commensurate with one's taste and perhaps some main
stream products. Today, I realize that an audience forms for my work, hence my audience constantly changes.
I get so excited when my clients contact me and say "I trust you, make me something fly." I create what I
like and that works for K~Fleye, besides if I make jewelry that fits in the paradigm of what currently
exist as the trend standard then I (K~Fleye) would no longer be special and different. I don't want to blend or
be placed in a box. Its fashion have fun!
How would you describe your style?
INNOVATIVE, UNIQUE, BOLD, CONTEMPORARY, CUTTING EDGE and too many adjectives to list.
You tell me.
What
is the method/ process?
There are some basic fundamentals of creating jewelry that I follow like wearing
your safety glasses but other than that, I just create what I like. My style is about freedom. My physical tools
are basic but my creativity is priceless.
How do we keep it fresh?
The measurement of our success is not based upon the production of the other designers. While
I view the work of other designers, coupled with being open to positive criticism of my work, my individual
style is relentlessly challenged by my standards of aesthetics and craftsmanship. In this way I feel supremely
confident that my work will remain fresh and possess longevity.