Welcome to GaleForce Design Jewelry
Hi, I’m Gale Dashner Schadewald, the creative force behind GaleForce Design Jewelry. Welcome to my world of copper jewelry, where each piece is crafted to capture the essence of nature. Known for my acid-etched designs, I transform everyday jewelry into wearable art inspired by the natural world.
From Childhood Creativity to Jewelry Art
My journey into artistry began at a young age. Some of my earliest life memories are of drawing and creating art. At just four years old, I entered a drawing contest at the county 4-H fair and won $100 and a blue ribbon for my depiction of my favorite thing at the fair—a black dog. Not the carnival rides, cotton candy or games, it was the animals I liked best. I joke that that was my first paying gig!
Inspired by Nature: The Heart of My Designs
Growing up, I spent my days exploring the woods and lake on our countryside property, captivated by the natural world. Plants, turtles, frogs, butterflies, and dragonflies were like childhood friends to me. They inspire the nature-themed designs you see in my work today. Combining my love for hands-on crafting with artistic expression led to the creation of GaleForce Design Jewelry, a journey I’ve embraced wholeheartedly.
Crafting Jewelry That Connects with Your Inner Self
GaleForce Design Jewelry is for those who cherish the beauty of the natural world and value unique, organic designs. My creations are for individuals who appreciate the craftsmanship of handmade jewelry and the authenticity it brings. They love pieces that resonate with their true selves and evoke a deep connection to the wild.
What makes GaleForce Design Jewelry truly special is that it goes beyond just personal style—it reveals the beauty of emotions. My jewelry is functional art that helps you connect with your authentic feelings. It’s not just about how great it looks on you; it’s about how it makes you feel. I believe that jewelry should bring you joy and resonate with your inner self, making both your heart and your spirit feel good.
People often share how wearing my creations boosts their confidence and makes them feel unique and special. Many are drawn to my designs because they spark cherished memories or symbolize important moments in their lives. My jewelry, featuring bold designs, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns, mirrors the strength and beauty of nature, reflecting these qualities in the person who wears it.
I’m excited for you to discover your own piece of nature-inspired jewelry and connect with the beauty of the natural world through my work.
Career History
Before my ventures in graphic design and metalsmithing, I spent six seasons as a Wildland Firefighter. Two of those seasons were on an Engine Crew in Detroit Lakes, MN, working for the Department of Natural Resources. Subsequently, I served four seasons stationed in Monument, CO, as part of a Helitack Crew with the United States Forest Service. It was during this time that I became a certified Helirappeller, rappelling out of helicopters for quick transportation to wildfires.
During one of my off-seasons, I pursued certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Upon returning for the following fire season, I became the crew’s dedicated EMT. By the time I left the Helitack crew, I had achieved several certifications in Wildland Firefighting, including Helicopter Crewmember, Firefighter Type 1, and Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).
A New Creative Path
After leaving the fire industry, I transitioned into graphic design, starting as a customer service rep and working my way up to Graphic Design Manager over 11 years. In 2014, I began exploring jewelry-making seriously, balancing my day job with a growing passion for crafting unique pieces. For four years, my evenings were dedicated to creating jewelry that gradually gained recognition in art shows, galleries, and gift shops.
In the fall of 2017, I took a bold step, leaving my established career in graphic design to fully commit to metalsmithing and freelance work. This leap marked a pivotal moment in my entrepreneurial journey, allowing me to immerse myself entirely in the world of jewelry-making.
Interviews
- For more on how my diverse career path and passion for art led to GaleForce Design Jewelry, read the Shoutout Colorado interview here.
- Explore the inspiration and challenges behind GaleForce Design Jewelry in my interview with CanvasRebel here.
- Discover more about my journey, the drive behind my work, and the inspiration for GaleForce Design Jewelry in the Bold Journey interview here.
Fun Facts About the Artist
- Featured in Cosmopolitan Magazine as a “Fun, Fearless, Female” for wildland firefighting work (photos below).
- A passionate enthusiast of all things pirate, bacon, and cotton candy (order of preference depends on the day).
- Held the title of homecoming queen. 👑
- A dedicated rockhound, often embarking on adventures with my husband to discover Earth’s beautiful treasures.
- Once wore the Smokey Bear costume for presentations to school kids, resulting in an amusing pants-pulling incident! 🤣
- Originally from Minnesota, with fond memories of growing up by a lake and a future aspiration to live by one again!
- Cherish my loving feline companion, Pearl – the notorious Black Pearl the Pirate Cat.
