About the Artist
I
design and create handmade wearable art jewelry. My “Art You Can
Wear” designs include exotic woven fibers, beads, and metal and
incorporate a variety of jewelry techniques in their designs. Some
of my designs are wire sculptures in sterling and fine silver or in
gold wire. I’m also weaving and manipulating silken fibers with fine
silver and sterling. Each piece is lovingly and painstakingly
crafted by me from the finest materials.
My “Designer Line” contains only one-of-a-kind pieces. The
“Designer Line” includes all of the Collections shown in the
Gallery. I can create similar one-of-a-kind pieces as custom
orders.
My other pieces, as featured in the online store – necklaces,
rings, bracelets, tiaras, and earrings - are available in
limited numbers and can be made to order using a variety of
metals and stones.
My goal is to create a work of art that brings
enjoyment whether it is worn or displayed.
My love of nature and jewelry making began at an early age. As I
was growing up, my family spent many happy times exploring the
Appalachians and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The crafts and jewelry I
saw as a small child inspired me to learn more.
After earning a
Ph.D. in chemistry, I began my explorations with lapidary arts and silversmithing. Over the years, my explorations have included a wide
range of weaving and jewelry techniques.
Along life’s way, I also became fascinated with Middle Eastern
dance. I was intrigued by the dancers’ elaborate costumes and their
detailed bead work. Some of my current designs integrate elements
from the Middle East into jewelry designs.
Crystals and their various forms also have long intrigued me. The
rainbow of colors and textures in nature excites and inspires me - I
love the glitter of gemstones and crystals. I often include them in
my pieces for their texture and eye-catching qualities.
Additionally, I’ve created several turquoise necklaces which are
reminiscent of the squash blossom designs of the American southwest.
I believe that creativity is a continuing journey – I am
constantly experimenting with new materials and approaches as I
construct pieces, so each of my designs has unique characteristics
and qualities.
I’m entranced with the textures and colors that can be achieved
with woven and braided fiber contrasted with the sheen of metal and
gemstones. I have created and lovingly woven each piece you see
here. I hand select all the beads and gemstones that I use in my
pieces. I have always been intrigued by crystals and the various
forms they take and include crystals in many of my pieces for their
texture and eye-catching qualities - I find the rainbow of colors
exciting and inspiring.
Diana Kirkpatrick maintains a blog at
http://artyoucanwear.blogspot.com/.
