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I create jewelry because I love jewelry. I have often felt a connection with the talismanic importance that some cultures give to personal adornment. I see my work as a visual response to my life experience. Often people tell me that my work "speaks" to them, my ultimate pleasure results from having made that link.
I have been making jewelry for over 20 years. As a child, the best present would always be a ring or bracelet, much sentimental importance was assigned to something that I would wear all the time. As I grew, my love for jewelry grew and eventually the most economical way to add to my collection was to make it myself. I took a jewelry techniques class in college and was enamored! Graduating meant that I had to give up those learning days in the studio, so I put it off as long as possible. In 1986 I finally left the University of Tennessee with a BFA in metals and ceramics, and it was time to make a living.
My Dad wanted me to work with gold and stones, thinking that the intrinsic value of the materials would enhance my ability to feed myself with my work. He said, "You'll never make a living selling silver jewelry!", and so the challenge for this rebellious daughter was clear.
20 years later my work is supporting me AND two daughters, and is sold in galleries and featured in books. Still my favorite days are the ones I spend in my studio creating pieces that bring joy to those of us who will always love jewelry. |
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