interview with Tricia Becker

Who are you and what do you do? Include a little bit about your background.

Tricia and her son Alexander are often seen together in her studio.

Tricia and her son Alexander are often seen together in her studio.

I gladly present myself as an artist, jeweler, mother, glass blower, gardener, and mom to a puppy, Tricia Becker! I am an obsessive creator. If I am not making something, I find something to cut, dig, grind, shape, bake or plan. My art career began freshman year of college with a metalsmithing class. I have been a professional jeweler since 1999. 

What do you love about your work?

My work is more like fun. Jewelry involves many steps of creation. The designing, planning, cutting, soldering (fire!) and gemstone setting is different in each piece. Most of my work is one of a kind custom pieces so I never get bored with repetition. If I do, I change it up and challenge myself to try something I have never done before. The lost wax casting process affords me many attempts to take risks. I absolutely love playing with, or “using” fire constructively to create wearable art. 

What do you hate about it?

It’s a real challenge to get caught up online. My website and online platforms take a back seat to the joy of creating. I prefer to have my hands on forming, shaping, hammering or melting something rather than behind a computer. 

Professionally, what’s your goal?

My goal as a jeweler is to make pieces that are sustainable using refined metals and ethically sourced gemstones. Jewelry tells a story, it becomes part of history and I am grateful that people invite me into their world to help tell their story. I would love to make more custom wedding jewelry. My goal as a teacher is to see my students grow independently and exceed or excel past my skill level of work. 

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What superpower would you love to have and why?

Time travel, so I could make better decisions about what stocks to buy! 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Thoughts become things, so choose the good ones! 

What places are most inspiring to you?

Everything inspires me, even a blade of grass or a raindrop. I am rejuvenated at the beach or in the mountains or cuddling with my son. 

What is your dream project?

Too hard to narrow down! Design and create jewelry for a dear friend who is an actor when she walks the red carpet at the Academy Awards. Go to Venice and Murano Italy to work with the best glass blowers in the world. Build a yurt or a tiny house. 

What has it meant to be a Liberty Arts Artist?

Joining Liberty Arts has connected me with some of the coolest and most talented artists in Durham and the Triangle area. The support and guidance I have received has enabled me to grow as a jeweler, collaborator and designer. Sharing community ideals with fellow artists at Liberty has reminded me that I create not just for myself and my client, but to create a bond with our community through classes and events. I am not just a jeweler at Liberty Arts, I am part of a fantastic community of collaboration. 

How has COVID-19 changed your life/business?

The current situation has shown me that I really need to up my online presence! And it has also reminded me that it’s OK and important to slow down to enjoy my garden, my son, my home and my private life outside of the daily grind that always makes me feel like I have to get “X” amount of things done to feel accomplished. I am re-learning how to balance a joyful life in and outside of my studio.