Patricia Sutterfield | Rebel & Rogue
Behind the young jewelry brand Rebel & Rogue is the relentless Patricia Sutterfield, whose training lies somewhere between the traditional and the self-taught.
Based in Kimberley, British Columbia, Patricia first began her journey in jewelry in 2016 with copper electroforming, before diving into metal smithing in 2018. What originally started out as a way to create pieces for herself quickly turned into an unexpected small business.
After a few years exploring copper electoforming and dipping her toes in the jewelry industry, she realized her passion lied in fine jewelry design, with the desire to create unique, alternative jewelry in small series.
She began learning the craft by taking beginner soldering classes, watching countless tutorials and spending hours practicing in the evenings. She was enrolled in New Approach School for Jewellers in Arrington, TN, graduated bench jewelry program for March, 2020. However, after a month into the course, she returned back to Canada due to the COVID pandemic. In June 2022 she went to Covington, Louisiana, to learn the art of hand engraving from master engraver Sam Alfano.
Sutterfield's designs take inspiration from classic styles, marrying them with unique diamonds, gemstones and meticulous hand-engraved details.
We're happy to present a short interview to make you discover a bit more who Patricia is and what inspires her!
Who are the artists you love the most, who inspire you or accompany you? Do they influence your work, and if so, in what way?
I can't say I have a favorite. I feel my taste and what I'm drawn to changes constantly. Depending on my mood, time of life, even season. However, at the moment I am really drawn to Saint No, Hemmerle jewelry - they have these match stick earrings which are the coolest.
If you could meet one person from history, who would it be and why?
Johnny cash - nothing to do with world justice of course - way to many people I’d love to meet for that purpose. I’d purely just love to see Johnny play live and feel the energy of the crowd!
How do you deal with times when you feel stuck or frustrated in your work? Do you have any strategies for overcoming these obstacles?
The best thing I’ve learnt to do, is to stop, pack up everything and go outside for a bit. I’ll go for a hike or a bike ride, just something outside, out of my studio.
The more I try to fight something the more it seems to get frustrated and get ruined. Taking a breather and having a fresh set of eyes always helps me.
If you could be reincarnated as a flower, which one would you choose and why?
I’d choose peonies! I love how beautiful they are as a bud and as a bloom. Beautiful in all stages.
I also love how peonies are said to symbolize “happiness wealth” not money wealth- because being wealthy in happiness is more important then money.
Is there a movie or music band you could watch on repeat and never tire of?
The movie JOY - I watch it once a year.
It always reminds me that in business things can be tough, but to keep going!
I also can listen to Angie McMahon and
Zach Bryan on repeat always!
How do you think art can have an impact on society or on people's lives? How does your own work fit into this larger context?
I think art impacts society in numerous ways. It opens people’s minds, brings people together, promotes communication and discussions. To me the thing I enjoy most about art, is the memories it can promote - maybe it’s a picture of the ocean side that reminds you of your grandma or a song that remind you of your mom from childhood. Memories can be made with art but also remembered.
I like to think my art impacts people who don’t feel although they fit into the cookie cutter wedding industry, the ones who feel that the whole classical tradition bride/groom just isn’t them. They get excited to see pieces that are different and truly shows their personality as a individual and as a couple.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
Animated sitcoms - Family Guy, Simpsons - they are my mindless watch shows when I cook or clean!
Finally, what is your favorite museum (worldwide)?
The Royal Tyrell Museum in Drumheller, Alberta! If you haven’t been, go!! It’s the coolest place ever- if you like paleontology!
I have been to a numerous number of museums around the world and honestly couldn't pick a favorite - but the Wellington Musuem in New Zealand also stands out!
Thank you for sharing a little of yourself with us, Patricia!
