ASTORIA – Unlike most retailers, jewelry artist Carine LaPointe opened a showroom in downtown Astoria recently as a second, not first thought.

The space she leased was larger than needed for a studio, so LaPointe decided to make use of the extra square footage to sell her own art pieces and jewelry, as well as work by other artists and manufacturers.

Carine’s Studio opened in mid-May this year.

In the brightly-lit and colorful shop there is nothing about the space that seems an afterthought, and LaPointe’s creative flair is evident throughout.

Tangerine and raspberry-washed walls are complemented by large, brushed-metal panels and mirrors. Display racks and lighting framework crafted from fencing material add to the mix. It all gels to generate an ambiance of exciting, trend-setting fun. LaPointe’s bubbly enthusiasm and casual-yet-stylish attire serves to solidify the chic vibe.

LaPointe, who hails originally from Holland, has been a jewelry artist for about 14 years, working predominately in metal. Her wearable art line includes earrings, bracelets and rings, as well as pendants adorned with natural stones from around the world. Prior to opening her own store LaPointe’s work was shown at DragonFire Studio & Gallery in Cannon Beach.

Years ago LaPointe spent time in New Mexico studying the jewelry-making technique of the Pueblo Indians, renowned for their skill in the artistry.

“I learned the Native American, old-fashioned way from an elder tribesman,”

LaPointe said.

When she moved to Astoria with her husband, Chris, and their daughter five years ago, LaPointe found access to tufa stone was limited. Tufa stone is used in the Pueblo jewelry-making process.

“I had to find a new way to create my artwork,” LaPointe said.

The solution was found at M&D Design on the Long Beach Peninsula. There she learned about the precious metal-clay process, in which small bits of reclaimed metal are mixed with clay. After creating a jewelry design in the clay, the piece is fired in a kiln. The clay incinerates and the metal fuses to create the final product.

“It’s very satisfying to see a beautiful piece of jewelry emerge,” said LaPointe.

LaPointe’s personal mission for her art is simple: “I hope people will love my jewelry and enjoy it.”

In addition to displaying and selling her own creations LaPointe said her shop is a display forum for new talent.

“My store provides an affordable gallery opportunity for budding jewelry artists; maybe those who haven’t shown their work anywhere yet,” she said.

Carine’s Studio offers non-jewelry products as well, including candle sticks, mirrors and a variety of metal artifacts, and handbags by Tokyo Bay and other designers. Sustainable products are the focus for stocked items in the store.

“One of my handbag lines, for example, is made from recycled fish food bags,” LaPointe said.

LaPointe is also looking forward to offering mixed-metal and wood and metal-only tables crafted by her husband.

“Chris can make anything, and he’s so good at everything,” LaPointe noted.

The decision to move to Astoria – largely made because of a vacation visit

and later watching the movie Kindergarten Cop – has been a good one for LaPointe and her family.

“I love Astoria because it reminds me of Europe and is a place that feels good,” she said.

LaPointe takes great pride in supporting her fellow local business owners, too, and said she looks forward to learning more about what other stores sell so she can refer customers to the appropriate place.

“Lots of people park their cars in front of my store then ask me where they can get something,” she said.

While open only a short time, LaPointe said she gets good business from Astoria Sunday Market-goers, and is optimistic about doing business In Astoria.

“I love having a shop downtown. I’m meeting so many local people and other downtown business owners. Astoria is fabulous.”

Prices in Carine’s Studio range from $25 to around $150, and LaPointe will special order requested items.

For more information call (503) 258-7980.

Carine’s Studio

211 12th Street, Astoria

Hours: open Thursday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and then again from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sundays the store is open Astoria Sunday Market hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.