Meet the Fleet!

Hi! I'm Kiley! (she/her)

Born and raised in Alberta, my childhood was rich in outdoor adventure and creativity. For many years, I was involved in Junior Forest Wardens, the local Calligraphy Guild, a Ukrainian Dance troupe, all fueling a sense of purpose and curiosity. This led me to pursue art at Red Deer College to earn a Visual Arts diploma with a focus in printmaking. I subsequently transferred to the Alberta University of the Arts (formally ACAD) to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts majoring in Jewelry and Metals and graduating with distinction.

On my first day of Jewellery 101, I was introduced to the work of Joan Irvin. Immediately taken with her precise saw work, I had a vision of my own art aesthetic translated from print into metal. The jeweler’s saw quickly became my favourite tool and piercing, a technique using a hand saw and exceptionally fine blades, has become my calling.

Under the instruction of Charles Lewton-Brain and other art professionals at AUA, I gleaned valuable skills in both the design and execution of fine jewellery. I was honoured with several scholarships and awards in addition to being a finalist in the Niche Jewellery Awards, hosted in Philadelphia, PA.

After graduating, I spent several years travelling and trying on different careers in nature conservation, farming, screenprinting, art supply and outdoor recreation retail, all while maintaining a studio in some sense. I had perpetually “itchy feet” and dreamt of a lifestyle that could combine all my passions.

I eventually moved to the Comox Valley with a renewed focus on my future and jewellery business. I now house and pet sit all over western Canada with my van and mobile studio in tow. 

Meet Frank!

Affectionately named after Frankenstein's monster, this 1974 Trav-L-Mate trailer has been transformed from a ramshackle hunting trailer, into a fully functioning studio and office; largely thanks to my Dad, Rick, a mechanical engineer with vast experience in custom vehicles. Together, it took several years of hard work and problem solving to bring the trailer back to life and ready for the road. Today, this small space oozes light, colour, and inspiration abound.

Meet Stan!

A 1999 Ford V10 Campervan and the muscle behind the operation! This van has carried me and the trailer to some the most incredible people and places imaginable!

 

I am forever grateful for the opportunity to live this wild and adventurous life and it wouldn't be possible without the love and support of people like you. Thank you!!