In 1989 I had just discovered the work of French artist Christian Boltanski and his use of faces, mainly children in reverential and church-like settings. Though his work has a darkness, this ouvre inspired me to want to use photographs in my work. Jewelry became a new extension of my creative expression.
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I incorporated miniature nails (from the train store), tiny grey feathers, insect wings and locks of my own hair. Looking back I think I was rebelling against the upbeat, cheerful art jewelry I was seeing in museum stores and boutiques. These pieces were highly personal.
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The Wink necklace has been in our collection for nearly 14 years.
Over time the centerpiece became a singular tiny child's image from the turn of the century. I would say it represented potential and hopefulness, a good luck charm similar to a medal with a saint's image. The addition of Rilke poetry added a depth combined with the mysterious, sweet image.
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Gold leaf gave the photos an almost religious aura.
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My current picture pieces have evolved and are now exclusively designed to feature custom photos, my own pictures of William and those of clients. They have always been a quiet side to my main collection but now they have become much more important to me. They are personal amulets that hold the image in a point in time. My Fuentes holds Will exactly at age 9 months-- documenting a moment. The picture from childhood captures a time of pure potential and joy--it captures our feelings as well. This time-capsule from father to the mother, friend to friend, or to yourself holds a piece of imagination and of inspiration....
It is so wonderful how you have found a way to enjoy old photos beyond just looking at them in an album that is usually just gathering dust on a shelf. I have some lovely photos of grandparents and greatgrandparents who were gone before I was born - and looking at their faces, especially the ones when they were young, makes me feel like they are here. My mother gave my daughter a gift certificate for your store when she graduated from middle school about a year ago and she found a unique poem which your artists beautifully engraved onto a bracelet. It is such a treasure.
ReplyDeleteEvery time I find a beautiful poen I think I should have it put on one of your pieces!
I love the wink necklace. Its on my wish list !!!
ReplyDelete