The Art of Found Objects: how Los Angeles inspires One Jewelry Designer
Los Angeles is a city of hidden treasures, and for one innovative jewelry designer, it’s a constant source of inspiration. she doesn’t seek out polished gems in traditional ways; rather, she finds beauty in the overlooked, the discarded, and the naturally fallen. Her work transforms humble finds into striking, wearable art.
A Unique Aesthetic Born from Exploration
Her journey began with a deep fascination for collecting. A big part of her creative process involves extensive walking and urban hikes,not just in Los Angeles,but across nearly 20 countries. These explorations aren’t aimless wanderings, but purposeful searches for materials – fragments of the world around her.
Imagine trekking from a studio to the iconic Watts Towers, or venturing westward towards Torrance, eyes peeled for the unexpected. She gathers objects discovered along the way, destined for a remarkable conversion. Consider a pair of iridescent beetles, carefully collected and becoming the focal point of a stunning, regal bib necklace.
From Inspiration to Artifacts: Building a Personal cosmology
She doesn’t simply assemble materials; she constructs narratives. You’ll find that her pieces aren’t just jewelry, but miniature cosmologies, personal artifacts imbued with meaning. She elevates both “high” gemstones and “low” plastics, fusing them together to create a unique energy and power within each work.
This approach is deeply rooted in her inspirations. She draws from the legacy of groundbreaking science fiction author Octavia Butler, whose visionary work informs her artistic perspective. You can see echoes of Butler’s themes in the thoughtful construction of her pieces.
Honoring Artistic pioneers Through Wearable Art
Her work also pays homage to other influential figures. Cuban American artist Ana Mendieta, known for her earth-body works, is another key inspiration. Her influence is visible in necklaces that subtly incorporate mendieta’s image and spirit.
Moreover, she skillfully incorporates natural history into her designs. A necklace crafted from a crinoid fossil stem is a testament to her ability to blend ancient beauty with contemporary artistry. These pieces aren’t merely decorative; they’re wearable tributes to those who came before.
The Power of Juxtaposition and Elevation
What truly sets her work apart is the deliberate juxtaposition of materials. She expertly combines precious stones with everyday plastics, challenging conventional notions of value and beauty. This fusion isn’t accidental; it’s a conscious effort to elevate the overlooked and imbue it with significance.
Ultimately, her jewelry invites you to reconsider your relationship with the objects around you. It’s a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, and that even the smallest fragment can hold a powerful story. Her art isn’t just about what she creates, but about the way she encourages you to see the world.
