Introducing Out Of Space Jewelry, where creativity takes flight and cosmic inspirations collide with vibrant designs. Founded by Tomo Jackson, an artist with a passion for y2k fashion, abstract art, and all things space-related, this brand is a celebration of outlandish, funky, and downright unique accessories. Each piece is crafted with love and a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of the iconic styles from the 90s and early 2000s. From alien themes to bold colors, Out Of Space Jewelry is here to remind us that adulthood doesn’t mean losing our inner child’s love for colorful and playful accessories. Join us on a journey through the stars and embrace the beauty of individuality with our eclectic collection!
What inspired the name “Out Of Space Jewelry,” and how does that reflect the essence of your brand?
I remember writing down a list of ideas for a business name, and I was listening to the song “Out Of Space” by Azealia Bank and It was sort of like a eureka moment! If you haven’t heard the song, you need to! It captures the essence of my jewelry so well. It’s outlandish, funky, bizarre, with sick beats.
Your work is heavily influenced by alien themes, space, y2k fashion, and abstract art. Can you delve into what drew you to these particular inspirations and how they manifest in your creations?
Sure! Growing up in the 90’s, this was quite literally my childhood. The 90’s and early 2000’s had some of the most iconic fashion in history. In a way, I make my jewelry for my “inner child” and everyone else’s inner child. For all the moments you wanted that cool bracelet at the mall, but your mom said no. This jewelry collection is for that girl. You can be an adult and still have fun and colorful accessories! I also have a background in Illustration, so I grew up loving and appreciating all of the great artists of our time; Georgia Okeefe, Van Gogh, Frida Khalo, Jean-Michel Basquiat to name a few.
Starting a business or creative project often comes with challenges. Could you talk about some of the hurdles you faced and how you overcame them?
Oh yes, there were definitely hurdles. The main one being SOCIAL MEDIA. It feels like artists these days have to perform circus acts on the internet just to attract the right audience.
On top of being an artist, you have to worry about engagement, ads, algorithm changes, scheduled posts, likes vs. follows, etc. Sometimes I feel I get so wrapped up in social media management,
I forget the reason why I started Out Of Space Jewelry; for my love of jewelry making. If there’s any artists that see this interview, please keep going! Just continue to do what you love.
The world needs our art and beauty.
What have been some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned since launching Out Of Space Jewelry?
Authenticity is everything. Stay true to yourself during your artist journey. Embrace those quirky ideas. The right audience will find you naturally.
Can you share a specific moment or experience that was particularly impactful in shaping your entrepreneurial journey?
Yes! Recently I started a collaboration with beauty and fashion influencers and one particular influencer has such a keen eye for fashion. They made an IG reel where they put together a cute outfit which included my jewelry I gifted them through the PR package.
Honestly, I felt like such a proud mom watching my little creations be great. The influencer styled my jewelry perfectly and showcased it so beautifully.
I felt so immensely proud. Starting this PR list has been really exciting and I’m happy to say I have a solid list of influencers to reach out now! And all I did was just reach out to them. That was the biggest challenge recently. I have learned to trust in myself, be brave and just put myself out there. The worst they can say is “no”.
How do you stay inspired and motivated, especially during times of difficulty or creative blocks?
Fashion. Fashion will always keep me inspired. Of course there are off days, but my love for the abstract and the weird will always keep a fire under me.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or artists who are looking to pursue their passion and turn it into a successful venture?
Find that balance between hobby vs. hustle. That topic is a difficult one to swallow, but if you can manage both and still be happy with your work, then you’ve found your balance. If you find yourself burnt out way more than you’re able to create, then there needs to be some adjusting.
Remember that love for your craft. Never let that feeling go.
How do you balance the creative aspects of your work with the business side of running Out Of Space Jewelry?
This one is still difficult for me at times. The creative part is easy, right? Have a concept, and make it.
The business part is a little more stressful. I touched on the topic earlier about social media marketing. and sometimes it gets to me. But I try to set a day aside for social media business, a day for creative projects, and a day for working on the website.
If I try and do it all in a day, I’ll burn myself out. Just gotta take it one day at a time.
Looking ahead, what are your goals and visions for the future of your brand, and how do you plan to achieve them?
One of my biggest goals is to start working at vendor markets this year, and I’m smashing that goal! I’ve been accepted to be in the Spectacular Black Girl Art Show here in Chicago! I want to reach more fashion lovers and creatives. I would love to see my jewelry in stores some day…or open up my own brick and mortar store. Where I can host artist galleries, networking events, and more!
You can buy
https://www.etsy.com/shop/xOutOfSpaceJewelryx
