My Story
Considering the lucky position of growing up in a very creative and supportive family, my path into the arts formed early. By grade 7 I realized I could focus my learning in a way to achieve the goal I set for myself: becoming a real professional artist!
The journey began as I learned a variety of artistic skills with which to pack into my creative tool kit, a widely ranged palette I use every day. I attended a 2-year Fine Arts program in college in Edmonton and then continued my studies at the University of Concordia in Montreal. Then back to Edmonton to complete my fine art studies at the University of Alberta where I finalized my Fine Arts degree.
Throughout my life I always wanted to learn, acquire knowledge about art and the creative process. I studied and practiced many forms of art-making; drawing, painting, photography and sculpture. As determined as I was to become a self-employed artist, one idea led to another, I discovered the art of lost wax casting and I was hooked on the direction it was taking me.
In my early thirties I moved to Vancouver from Edmonton, determined to become a jewelry artist. My designs were picked up and sold through an eclectic shop on Robson Street in Vancouver and another Fine Arts based retail store downtown Edmonton. In 1993 I needed help setting small faceted diamonds for a commissioned piece. I asked a new friend Marshall Marr, an established metal-artist and goldsmith for some help. He set my stones, and the diamond of my heart and we set our future together. Our vision was to live on the Sunshine Coast. We found some land and within two years we were out of Vancouver and living on the Coast building everything from the ground up. This is where and when the very first dragonfly brooch was created. Earthly Creature Designs was born! A hallmark collection full of rich treasures inspired by nature from our own coastal paradise.
I travelled the country extensively selling at art fairs but eventually I figured it was time to develop a brick and mortar business closer to home. Copper Sky Gallery and Cafe in downtown Madeira Park was established and for 8 years it was the thriving hub of our community and popular with locals and visitors. At the height of our success, we sold it and returned to full time in the home-based studio.
Earthly Creatures Designs has grown in sales and popularity through my Etsy online shop which sells and sends the Earthly Creatures all over the world! My journey continues with my focus on using precious metals and gems offering new and custom designs in this new website here as myself, Cindy Cantelon Sculpture and Jewelry.