Introducing… today’s NEXT BIG THING item, sparkling toothy earrings from Komodokat! Read on to learn more about Houston, TX-based artist Jennifer Chen’s playful line of jewelry, cellphone charms and other unique items made of polymer clay. Every single piece is handmade so each one is unique. Her prices are amazing, too, definitely something to smile about.

Hi Jennifer! These teeth earrings you made for FF are so supercute! Anything particular inspire you to create them?
I think we are always in need of something unexpected and unique in society that puts a smile on peoples’ faces. Teeth are something we all possess so in some weird way, when something “commonly known” is put into a totally new context, we relate to it in a mysterious way that touches on the ridiculous meets fun meets ‘hahaha, that’s funny!” and I love that.

How old is your business and when/how did you get your start?
My business is barely a year old. I went live with my storefront in July of 2007. Previously I had sold my fine art on the side along with freelance graphic design whilst working my day job. I decided to start my shop as a new project, and I never imagined the response I am getting now — things have been amazing!

How would you describe your work?
I have been an artist since I was four and first picked up a pencil to draw. My love for the cute, kitschy and whimsical mixed with a love of sardonic, dark and ironic- juxtaposed themes inspired me to create my shop and pay more attention to this side of my personality. I have a wide variety of interests and hobbies and my art reflects these influences.

What is the origin of the name Komodokat?
The origin of Komodokat originates from my Chinese zodiac sign and my best friend’s zodiac sign. I am the Year of the Tiger, and she is the Year of the Dragon. Because we have a tight rapport, the name Komodokat seemed fitting because not only does it incorporate our signs into its title to represent our friendship, but also retains the Asian origins and focus that stems from my ethnic background — American born Chinese.

Do you have any particular goals for Komodokat in the next year?
My plans for Komodokat are the hope that it will grow and evolve more so and become something that I could quite possibly make my living entirely from. If not, I am still happy — the most important and rewarding thing about Komodokat is that I am creating something and throwing it out into the world. This in itself is worth all the effort and something I never want to sell myself short on.