The ARTifacts series was inspired by the works of the Dutch painters of the 16th Century, who frequently used copper rather than canvas or panel as their painting support. The vibrancy of color in the works that survive today are unparalleled.
A viewing of some of these works inspired me to think about this technique as a way to reconcile my love of painting in oils with my love of making jewelry -- creating unique little treasures, each of which is also an original oil painting.
Each painting is set in an individually crafted frame that is uniquely designed to complement that particular painting. The frames are designed to be removable by a jeweler, allowing for periodic cleaning of the silver if it becomes necessary.
The pieces are also designed for flexibility in presentation. Many have backings that enable easy conversion between pendant and pin, and some feature a "picture chain" bail to enable hanging them on a wall or in a shadowbox. The paintings (such as Still Life with Seashells) that are worn solely as pendants are designed with a double-bail so that the necklace lays flat against the skin without "flipping." This bail also threads the chain parallel to the top of the painting for an exceptionally attractive look.
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