Darci Shea Bogdan | The Turn of Lycius

Artist: Darci Shea Bogdan, California
Materials:  glass enamel, gold 24k, sterling silver, rhodolite garnets
Size: 8

Artist Statement: This ring is loosely inspired by the story of Lycius who a prince was once turned white raven by Artimes. He becomes a messenger of Apollo and was tasked to guard Coronis who was pregnant with Apollos child. In a rage Apollo punishes Lycius and turns him from a white to black by scorching him for failing his duty. From then on ravens have been closely associated with prophecy, foresight and the change of the seasons. In the America it is believed that a white raven helped bring the sun, moon and stars to earth, but turned black when it brought fire to humans.
This kinetic ring is a symbol of change and magic and can be manipulated by the wearer. One onside is an opalescent white Raven on a limb with the new growths of spring under a crescent moon. On the other side is a Black Raven on the same limb with colors hinting to the approach of Autumn under a star. The framing of the ring is decorated a branch scaffolding and gold leaves set with rhodolite garnets, a symbol of the fire within.

Artist Bio: Darci Shea graduated with a BA in Children's Book Illustration from Savannah College of Art and Design in 2010. While pursuing an art career she became a boat captain to pay the bills. Working on the ocean focused her artwork and craft on nature, mythology and conservation. In 2015 she studied under master enamellist Merry Lee Rae where she learned the art of Cloisonné. Since then, Darci Shea has been honing her craft as an illustrator, enamellist and metalsmith while still continuing to sail on the ocean. She is an AJDC Jose Hess Award winning jewelry and sells her work around the world online and in person at fine art and craft shows.

This ring was part of Battle of the Rings: Ring Smackdown 2024, an online exhibition and competition. View the entire collection HERE, view the matches HERE, and learn more HERE.