Editor Spotlight: Cynthia Levens

Meet the creative forces behind your favorite Stampington publications with our Editor Spotlight feature!

Cynthia Levens

Managing Editor, Belle Armoire, Belle Armoire Jewelry, Art Quilting Studio; Executive Consulting Editor, Where Women Create 

What is the most gratifying thing about your job?
I love sending out the initial congratulatory emails. Our artists spend so much time and effort putting such beautiful and unique pieces together that appear in each of our magazines. Oftentimes, the act of just submitting a piece of art for publication consideration takes a lot of courage. I have the highest admiration and respect for the artists I work with, and it is so gratifying to tell them that their dedication has not gone unnoticed.

When you’re not writing about other people’s work, what art do you create?
I do love art, and I’m fortunate to work in such a vivid and creative environment. But, the truth is, I’m not much of a crafter. I used to draw, paint, sketch, and work with clay, and it’s been a struggle to find my way back. I spend most of my time on writing these days. That’s my go-to outlet.

Tell us about one of your passions.
I’m passionate about many, many different things, but the first that comes to mind is music. My life literally revolves around it.  It sets my mood in the morning, it keeps me going throughout the day, and it pumps me up before a fun night out. You can always find me at some kind of show at least once a week. Don’t get me started on music festivals — that’s a conversation that would never end.

What is your idea of the perfect weekend?
The perfect weekend…well, first of all, it would be a full week. It would include a combination of music, dancing, food, shopping, fine wine, and amazing company. Vegas, New York, Spain, and Greece are, of course, all great options.

What would you like to accomplish a year from now?
Anything and everything that’s within my reach. I’m an extremely ambitious person, and I’m constantly setting goals for myself.  Who knows, next year I might be speaking another language.

Can you give us a glimpse into the Spring 2012 issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry?
I’m in LOVE with this issue. I know I say that about each issue I put together, but it’s true. This one in particular contains a vast range of techniques like wire wrapping, beading, metal work, etching, foldforming, wax casting, stamping into clay, and creating incredibly unique bezels from glass bottles and shotgun shell rings. I can’t really describe in words the level of artistry seen in this issue; you will just have to pick it up.

Where Women Create showcases some amazing art spaces. What would you like to have in your dream studio?
My dream studio would probably be a replica of Matthew Mead’s – crisp and clean with bursts of color. It’s really refreshing, and you’ll be able to see it featured in the “Men Who Make It” department in the upcoming Summer 2012 issue.

What is your favorite style of clothing that you’ve seen featured in Belle Armoire?
The Summer 2012 issue of Belle Armoire will be my first as Managing Editor, and I’m thrilled to finally be able to put my own spin on them. To pick a favorite piece or style from this issue isn’t even possible – I would gladly wear every item featured. I can’t wait for you all to see the gorgeous creations and photography come July 1st!

To catch a glimpse of the inspiration inside Cynthia’s publications, please visit Art Quilting Studio, Belle Armoire, Belle Armoire Jewelry, and Where Women Create. Don’t miss the beautiful jeweled creations in the Summer 2012 issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry, available for pre-order until April 25th.