This edition of Interview with the Artist features the wonderful, whimsical, elegant work of an accessory designer with a very special talent for creating hats!
Please meet Jane of Glorious Hats.
Were you interested in art as a child?
Hmmm, you know that is true, while I did not think of it as an interest in art; I have always made things: tissue flowers, bean collages, doll hats and clothes from scraps. Things that kept my hands and head busy. The family often went to visit grandma on weekends and taking different “projects” to make with cousins is a fond memory.
What were some of your earliest projects?
An Easter Hat from an oatmeal tub and crepe paper for kindergarten. (as seen in photo above!) I can describe in detail a number of fabrics, sewing patterns and clothes I made during high school years. My husband on the other hand remembers few clothes; but he can relate details of many meals.
When did you first become interested in making hats?
Wearing and making hats has always been part of my lifestyle; the immersion in refreshing, refashioning vintage; and creating new hats began about 7 years ago.
What are your favorite styles of hats?
Flapper Cloche Hats that hug the head and have a small shaped brim. Practical and beautiful all at once.
Please tell us about the history of “Fascinators”?
It seems to be evolving to mean a small, often frivolous, hat or headpiece that stays in place with a clip or headband. When I started seeing the term “Fascinator” I did not find references to it in millinery books. But lately, in online definitions/info, I’m finding a reference to Fascinators as “small lacy head pieces” from the Victorian era. Fascinators in general seem to be smaller than Cocktail hats but bigger and more involved than headbands or barrettes. Ornamentation to wear on the head that is eye catching, often whimsical, beautiful, sometimes bold, sometimes quirky; something that brings attention and interest, draws the eyes of others up and to one’s face and hair. Fascinators are fun to make and fun to wear; often people that might shy away from wearing a full hat, will wear a Fascinator.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
It varies, sometimes the design and shape of a hat begins with practical purpose — shading the face, shading the neck, keeping ears warm; sometimes it begins with an idea for trim; sometimes with an event, such as a fete or holiday. As an example: The fairy reclining on a mushroom hat was a custom design created for a young woman going to the “Burning Man” festival. She needed good shade and wanted an umbrella shape that looked like a mushroom with a fairy on top plus one that would stay on her head in wind. So I ran with those concepts with this as the result.
Do you keep any examples of your best work – just for yourself? 🙂
Dare I admit that I make hats for myself first and second for others? Same quality for both. One of the joys of creating for others and for sale is that I get to make great designs that might not show off my own face, shape, style to advantage; but will enhance another’s appearance. Different styles and colors work for different people.
What advice would you give to people who would like to begin selling their art but could use a little guidance?
Really explore what you want to achieve through selling your work; then explore selling options and consider what methods and ways will best suit your needs.
For more information on the glorious art of Glorious Hats, you may visit her etsy shop or her blog. 🙂
‘Til next time,
