Amulets and Talismans
I have a PhD in Marine Science and worked as a professor of Biology and Ecology at a college in Florida. This is probably why the sources and background of the materials that go into my pieces are important to me. I continually strive to use more and more ethical and ecologically sound practices in my studio. I use recycled materials to package shipments whenever possible. I use more eco-friendly chemicals where I can. Mainly I use truly recycled materials – I remove stones and melt down old jewelry and silverware myself. I do not sacrifice anything beautiful or valuable, of course, those go into my personal collection for inspiration!
My home is styled as my personal refuge with the things I love. I sometimes post pictures of my vignettes as they are a window into my aesthetic.
I have always loved fashion and come from a family to whom creating things comes so easily. I was the black sheep who couldn’t draw a stick figure, but I discovered jewelry-making and realized the art is not the ability to draw but the ability to imagine. I came to understand that the skills to express that must be learned and that was my great revelation. (and my drawing has improved slightly too…)
Jewelry has ALWAYS served the same purpose in human societies: to show status (marital, socio-economic, political), to indicate something personal like line of work or interests, etc. To me the most fascinating is our use of adornment as a sort of talisman or amulet; for protection, remembrance, spiritual or personal significance. Jewelry can make the wearer FEEL different. That feeling is elusive and personal and almost doesn’t lend itself to explanation. I think that unspoken truth goes into a piece that is made by someone by hand and it resonates with the person who acquires it. My clients are always extremely emotionally attached to my work. It’s magical and strange and often still surprises me. I don’t talk about it too much but just accept that it is something that happens.
