A Conversation with Jeffrey

An interview of Jeffrey Goldstein by  Marco Jaimes:

M: Hi Jeffrey. So first of all, who are you and what do you do?

J: My name is Jeffrey Goldstein and I am an artist, healer, dyer, and printer based in NYC. I am a native New Yorker, and my passion is bringing beauty into this world through the medium of color, which I do by mixing dyes and painting them onto scarves, pocket squares, shawls, with each design being completely unique.

M: How long have you been doing this kind of work?

J: 20 years.

M: What is your favorite part about doing this kind of work?

J: The making. The process of making and mixing the dye. Applying it through the use of brushes, stamps, and textured plastics. I get completely in the zone when I dye clothing. I feel at bliss when I am doing my work, like a kid.

M: What are some of the struggles and difficulties you've faced in your career?

J: My biggest struggle has been getting the word out and making sales, so the marketing side of things. The work itself has never been a struggle. I do it because I have to, it is a calling as well as a profession. Sometimes I am lying in bed at 2am and I have an idea for a beautiful design. So I get up and get to work.

M: What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into this work?

J: Just do it. The knowledge and joy comes from doing, not from contemplating.

M: What inspires you to do what you do?

J: I'm able to express myself through color/textiles in a way that I'm unable to express myself through words. I believe the witnessing and enjoyment of beauty feeds the soul. I make one of a kind accessories because I want to encourage individual freedom and expression.

M: What does your typical day look like?

J: I wake up. I meditate. I contemplate and then I get to work.

M: What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

J: I want to do this for the rest of my life. I hope to accomplish building a business that is strong enough to allow me to employ others.

M: How do you price your work?

J: My work is essentially wearable art. I price my work as a bargain for something scarce. Everything I make is one of a kind, and if a piece it is meant for someone, it will find its way to them. 

M: Who are your biggest influencers?

J: My biggest inspirations are the great colorists, Paul Cezanne, Andre Derain, Wassily Kandinsky, Claude Monet, and Vincent Van Gogh. I also take inspiration from African art, Chinese porcelain, and Islamic tile work. When I am actually making art however, I try as best as I can not to be influenced by others. I aim to have a direct communication with spirit. 

M: Thank you Jeffrey. This has been an insightful conversation.

J: Of course.