Ardent Notions: a contemporary Everywoman's essence examined

Abstract

Ardent Notions is an installation of objects that form a personal narrative expressing my points of origin, current passions and future hopes. I employ self-specific imagery referencing family, home and partnership to convey the very essence of my `tiny human heart.' I want the viewer to form connections with subject matter concerning mapping, place, relationships, womanhood, love and the cyclical nature of life. As a contemporary metalsmith and jeweler, I work intuitively combining both ancient and modern techniques to create pieces that translate the collected mementos of my life into wearable art objects. Employing circular forms that reference the cyclical nature of life, I create pieces that contain personal sanctuary. My design aesthetic is driven by the challenge to successfully amalgamate hobbyist materials with precious metals mined from the veins of Earth. Garden iconography and architectural structures are used to surround and protect my heart within a nurturing environment.