Richard Salley - Kinetic Butterfly Ring

Artist: Richard Salley
Materials: sterling silver, brass, piano wire, faceted garnet
Size: 8 & 12
Dimensions: 2.25" x 1"

Artist Statement:
I am intrigued with hinges, clasps, and all sorts of mechanisms. This ring incorporates many of these aspects in a whimsical way rather than a strictly mechanical exercise.

Artist Bio:
Richard began working in metal in 1969 as an assistant to metal sculptor Malcom Moran in Carmel, CA. He later went on to graduate from the University of California and became a teacher. He recently retired from teaching in public schools to devote more time to his art and teaching workshops.

Although mostly self-taught in jewelry making, Richard has studied with Keith LoBue, Susan Lenart-Kazmer, Robert Dancik and Charles Lewton-Brain, all of whom have been long-term mentors and friends. He considers himself not so much a jeweler but rather a ‘maker of wearable art’. His interests include digital art, mixed media collage/assemblage, sculpture and jewelry.

Richard approaches creating art as one big problem solving activity. There are problems with materials, designs, execution, and of course, marketing! Overcoming these challenges are part of the journey/reward process which makes each piece unique and memorable.

This ring is part of Battle of the Rings: Ring Smackdown 2021, an online exhibition and competition. Shop the entire collection HERE, view the matches HERE, and learn more HERE.