K. DiResta Collective
& K. DiResta Design, Inc
Q & A With Kathleen
DiResta answered these questions about her creative background, inspiration and why she loves being open for business.—By Elizabeth Winchester
Q. You earned your BFA in sculpture and art history from SUNY New Paltz. How did you get from sculpture to jewelry?
A. I took a basic metalsmithing class that was part of the BFA program. That led to a job at a Jeffrey Allan Jewelers in the summer of '91, where I worked assembling, polishing and setting stones, and helping at craft shows.
Q. You’ve said concepts that motivated you as a sculpture student—such as pure geometric forms, visual rhythms and elements working together as one—influence your jewelry making. What else inspires your work?
A. I believe less is more, such as the simplicity in a curve or a circle. Shapes from nature, like a branch or leaf appeal to me. I enjoy looking at the patterns in the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and the sculptor, Brancusi for inspiration. Both artists had an innovative, yet pure design sense.
Q. How has your family influenced you?
A. My three older brothers and I grew up watching our dad create amazing woodwork in his basement workshop. He encouraged us all to be creative. It was natural for us all to end up in creative careers. (John, a woodworker and comic, and Jimmy, an inventor and YouTube sensation. Joey has been in the toy and invention business for more than 20 years.) We are very supportive of each other.
Q. Your first gallery was in the East Village (1999-2003). Was it similar to the K. DiResta Collective?
A. Yes. In the city, I was also using a storefront both as a working studio and gallery space. When I closed it, I continued my business by doing craft shows and meeting clients at my Glen Head studio. The biggest difference with my new store is my connection to the community, with the work of other artists being an important part of our retail experience. I'm making a point to offer items at all price points, making it a great destination for artisan gifts.
Q. How do you feel about the shop’s opening?
A. Amazing. From the first moment that I heard the space was available, to the outpouring of love and support from friends, to the light and openness of the space itself, it has been a dream come true. I feel lucky every day.
Shop K. DiResta Collective
For custom design, personal service, and heart and soul in every piece come see Kathleen DiResta in store or online!
Check out our handmade jewelry in store-the selection varies all the time, and you can always find a unique one of a kind piece or a classic KD signature item for yourself or for a gift. Our shop is located in beautiful Sea Cliff, NY. Here you can also always find creative, joyful art by Kathleen and textile design/ home goods curated by Kimberle Frost. We showcase art, jewelry, artists, and celebrate everything handmade. For the latest images and posts, find us on Instagram: @kdirestacollective.
About Kathleen & K. DiResta Design
After Kathleen received her B.F.A in sculpture and art history, she assisted three different jewelry designers in running their businesses, and creating and selling their collections.
Since 1997, Kathleen has been designing and creating her own line of jewelry as K. DiResta Design, Inc. Kathleen handcrafts each unique, geometric piece of jewelry. Her palette includes exceptional combinations of sterling silver, brass, gems, and beads. Kathleen's designs have been sold nationally through galleries, boutiques, and high-end craft shows. She has also been featured in the Sundance Catalog, Women’s Wear Daily, Lucky Magazine, Modern Bride, Newsday, and several books including 500 Wedding Rings.
From 1999 to 2003, Kathleen owned her own gallery space and studio in the East Village in NYC, DiResta Gallery. The gallery featured jewelry and photography by Kathleen and furniture by her brother Jimmy. Currently, she owns and runs her own retail store, K. DiResta Collective. The collective features her work in jewelry, photography, and collage, as well as the varied works of other local artisans from woodworking and furniture, to jewelry, prints and ceramics.
In addition to her line, she works closely with customers to create one-of-a-kind pieces for their wedding or special occasion, in platinum, gold, and diamonds. She is also known for reworking heirloom pieces that maintain their sense of sentimentality, even after being updated.
This rare mixture of artistic talent, magnificent craftsmanship and enthusiasm makes a visit to KD Collective a must. Hers is jewelry that needs to be experienced.
““Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined.”
― Henry David Thoreau ”