Plethora of Motifs - Leaves of Ebony necklace and earring set

Artist: Nancy Bonnema
Materials: ebony from violin, sterling silver, stainless steel cable, hand fabricated sterling clasp, earrings sterling silver and ebony
Dimensions: Necklace: 6 ''a cross with 16'' chain. Earrings: 2'' by 1.5''

Artist Statement: The indigo block printing held so many messages and designs. It was a challenge to find the shapes that spoke to me. I narrowed it down to the mountains and the maple leaves blowing in the rain. I wanted to have movement and lightness in the pieces.
After much thought and searching for ideas, it just took one tilt of my head to see the ebony violin neck pieces a friend had gifted me sitting on my studio shelf.. Voila, they were the same shape as the leaves blowing in the rain! I had them cut into 1/8 inches slices and thus started my exploration.
I then took my design shapes and drew and fired 12 kt white gold "Keith Lewis" technique on the pre-enameled steel in the kiln and fabricated the mountains.
It was very inspiring to bridge ebony and enameling together.

Artist Bio: I am a narrative storyteller and my jewelry is my voice. I could spend a lifetime learning, traveling, and exploring. Everywhere I go, I find meaning in each person I meet and the events in my life from master smiths in Mexico, a bus ride in Seattle, to living with a cherished grandparent. I have had incredible life experiences and opportunities. The work I create is all about people and experiences that have moved me and influences my life. Each piece I create has a story to tell inspired to by my own inner thoughts and beliefs, as well as meaningful interactions with people I meet. My work in each discipline I explore involves continual study that helps my proficiency. I love line, shape and form. Each of us leaves a mark in the world. My mark is to try to create a story for my personal encounters and experiences. My jewelry is my voice.

Fabric Motif: This fabric is packed with a plethora of Japanese traditional motifs, in indigo and white: plum blossoms, chrysanthemums, bamboo, pine trees, mountains and water.

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.