There is something special about Sam. Could it be her unique boho style or that kind of 1940’s film star demeanor that are immediately engaging? Perhaps it’s her fantastic smile and unassuming attitude. She also carries a great handbag with a stunning intertwined snake clasping it together. And her belt…it makes you feel you really need to start wearing one! She’s the mind and hand behind these gorgeous pieces.
Samantha has a passion and enthusiasm when talking about her belts and bags and the process behind their creation. There’s a purity of vision in how she approaches her designs. Sam sources her materials locally to help support local businesses and stays personally involved in the entire design process. All the metalwork is cast in East Los Angeles, so she is able to drive there once a week and maintain a close relationship with a foundry that is run by second generation Angelenos. This attention to detail shows in her work. The quality, artistry and functionality are prevalent and beautiful…quickly evident if you are lucky enough to own one of her pieces.
Samantha was kind enough to answer some of our questions and give us a sneak peek into her creative process…
Give us a little background on yourself, what you do/how you came to do what you do and where that path has lead you.
Raised a traveler, I lived around the world by the age of 10, England, the Phillipines, USA! Born into a creative family comprised of the following: musicians (my English aunts and Uncles), painters (my mom), filmmakers (my uncle Mike Figgis), style setters (my grandmother Marge who brought Emilio Pucci to Lord & Taylor in the early 60’s) and then married into a family of: Metalsmiths, jewelers, and painters. It seems I was destined to be drawn instinctively and passionately toward art and design.
Do you work out of your home studio, and if so, how is it to work from home while dividing your attention between 2 kids?
Yes and it is what I always wanted. When I am extremely busy it can be a challenge but for the most part it works really well.
What’s the one thing that always stays on your to-do list and never gets crossed off? (i.e: organizing your kids art projects, planning a trip… etc.)
A return trip to Spain and Italy! It has been over 15 yrs. Kill the gopher, old house repairs… our house is 101 yrs old.
You feel best when…?
In my loverman’s arms or when walking and dancing. Riding bikes with my family, designing and making things, picnics. Eating in candlelight.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Buying flowers for myself.
If you had another talent, what would it be?
To sing like Chrissie Hynde and dance like Ginger Rogers with Fred Astaire.
Who is your favorite unsung artist?
My husband, John Biggs! So many Children’s art & creations.
Knowing what you know now, if you had 21 to do all over, what is the one thing you’d do differently?
Nothing. I was living in Providence, attending the Rhode Island School of Design, in love with John having one of the great adventures of my life.
Best purchase you made in the last FEW months?
An emerald green hat (vintage 1970’s?) that says “CONTESSA” made in Italy inside. It is awesome.
Where is your favorite local hangout / favorite store or shop?
I am a tough customer, I am still searching for a favorite. Stella Café lately, The Echo Park Craft Fair for all it’s amazing local designers: Kathleen Whitaker, Beatrice Valenzuela; The Echo Time Travel Mart.
What excites you most?
Realizing my ideas successfully,
Wonderful moments shared.
Interesting/stimulating people, places and things that remind me how awesome life is to be a part of.
Greatest fear?
No fear only challenges.
Ok…maybe, CLOWNS!
Name 5 things you do to get your morning off and running.
• Allow myself 20 minutes to rise,
• Coffee,
• Newspaper
• Make lunches for my girls
• Head off for school drop off
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Further established as a designer, making amazing things.
Better with age, just like the patina on bronze
And worn in a little more like a well loved beautiful leather bag!
Check out some exclusive photos taken at Samantha’s home studio in Echo Park, CA…
Home Studio Photos by: Kelly Norris Sarno
What a lovely story of a life lived in love, grace, and creativity. Thank you for sharing this inspirational story of a life fully lived.