Butterflies on lines - Butterfly Whisper Necklace

Artist: Vicky Zomenou
Materials: sterling silver oxidized, enamel, gold leaf, sterling silver chain
Dimensions: 40'' L

Artist Statement: As I held the delicate fabric, I couldn't help but sense an echo from two different worlds.

In Japan, butterflies embody the fleeting beauty of life, the transformative power of change. A symbol of metamorphosis, a bridge between the earthly realm and the spirit world. It's said they carry the souls of the recently departed, fluttering whispers of loved ones lost.

My mind drifted to Ancient Greece, where the butterfly held a similarly profound meaning. The Greeks saw them as "psyche," the very essence of the soul. Their myth of Psyche tells a tale of transformation, a woman granted immortality by the god Eros, her journey mirrored by the butterfly's own.

Across continents and centuries, two distinct cultures found a common thread in the delicate wings of the butterfly. One saw it as a vessel for departed spirits, the other, as the embodiment of the soul's journey. Both believed in transformation, the fleeting nature of life, and the enduring power of something beyond our earthly existence.

Artist Bio: Vicky Zomenou, the artist behind Porpe Artifacts, blends her Greek heritage with a contemporary design sensibility.  After honing her jewelry skills for over a decade, she found a creative home in Seattle and established Porpe Artifacts.  Her work is characterized by sculptural forms and a bold use of mixed materials.   A strong narrative element is infused into each collection, encouraging a personal connection between the piece and its wearer.  Vicky aims for her jewelry to empower self-expression and celebrate individuality.

Click HERE to explore more jewelry from Vicky's Zomenou.

Fabric Motif:  In Japan, butterflies symbolize metamorphosis and transformation. They are closely linked to recently departed spirits.

This piece was part of the Yukata Inspired 2024, a collaborative exhibition between Okan Arts & Danaca Design featuring metalwork and collage. Learn more and view the entire collection HERE.