Today we’d like to introduce you to Lianna Villarreal
Hi Lianna, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began back in high school where I experimented with simple beaded designs as a hobby. When I enrolled at UT Austin, jewelry making took a backseat as I immersed myself in my biology studies. The turning point came during my junior year when the intensity of my science courses became overwhelming. I craved a creative escape, so I reconnected with my passion for jewelry making and Villa Atelier was born.
I completed my biology degree this past December and immediately jumped into formal jewelry training at Austin Community College in January of this year to further develop my craft.
As an aspiring physician, the dichotomy of art and science intrigued me. Medicine is a realm where both of these fields harmoniously intertwine. The art of jewelry making and the practice of medicine are both acts of creation– each imbued with a sense of purpose and meaning. The parallels between the two disciplines emphasize the artistry and humanity inherent in both practices.
Villa Atelier is the realm behind my eyes, where the weights of mundanity do not apply. When I create a piece for someone, it has been worked in my own two hands, and my hope is that recipients of these pieces might feel a connection to them, being able to trace my vision, process, and passion.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Giving myself permission to be a beginner has been the hardest part. There’s a steep learning curve– from mastering technical skills like wire-wrapping to navigating the business side with website development and tax obligations.
The financial aspect has been particularly daunting. Quality materials like gold-filled components and freshwater pearls come with significant upfront costs, which isn’t easy when you’re 21 and fresh out of college with limited resources.
Balancing my creative business with medical school application preparation constantly tests my time management skills. But, these challenges confirm that Villa Atelier truly stems from passion.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
What makes my work unique is how each collection draws its name and inspiration from scientific concepts, complete with explanations on their dedicated collection pages. My three most popular collections-Synergism, Visible Light, and Photosynthesis–exemplify this approach.
For example, my debut Synergism collection pairs freshwater pearls with petite blush pearls. In science, synergism refers to the interaction of two or more elements producing an effect greater than the sum of their individual effects. In our body, some hormones, such as testosterone and growth hormone, work synergistically and enhance each other’s effects. Just as my physiology professor explained, “1 + 1 > 2.” This collection has become particularly popular for bridal jewelry.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
While pursuing my Associate’s degree in Jewelry at ACC, I’m constantly absorbing new techniques and approaches. Austin’s vibrant creative community offers incredible learning opportunities that I’m eager to explore.
One day, I would love to establish a dedicated home studio where I can craft intricate pieces like custom engagement rings. For now, though, you’ll find me at ACC’s workbench, refining my craft and expanding my skills one creation at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://villaatelier.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/villaatelierco
