Formal education has been a strong influence in both my life and work. My undergraduate degree was in philosophy, so it is no accident that the designs I create are strongly idea driven. I design jewelry as wearable art. Working in series, I often explore themes drawn from my musings about life. I carefully choose the elements of each piece to reflect the meaning I want to convey.
During my travels around the world I was exposed to rich textures, colors, rhythms, and art that influence my design choices. Although I do not mimic ethnic styles, my work often has elements that are reminiscent of lives more connected to earth and nature and simple tools. I often frame those elements with a simple, sleek shape or surface that reflects the modern sensibility of the home in which I grew up.
Before becoming a jewelry artist, I worked in ceramics and also had become skilled in carpentry. Those years of working with clay and glazes and building with wood have influenced my approach to metal. I am always seeking ways to disrupt the shininess and preciousness of metal, and to give it texture or color. In a nod to my carpentry days, I often join elements together with rivets and other mechanical connections instead of using solder. I think of my work as small sculptures rather than as frames for gemstones. I do include pearls in my Nest and Cocoon series of work, but their use is symbolic rather than ornamental.
If you were attending an opening of an exhibition at a gallery, you would be able to hear the artist talk about the evolution of the work in the show. So, in my virtual Gallery, I describe the inspiration for each series. I invite you to grab a glass of wine, or a cup of coffee or tea, or to at least imagine it, ... and enjoy exploring the work.
I welcome your questions ... or your own musings ... so please feel free to contact me.