Naming a collection is not easy for me.  For this group of work, I did not start out with a name or theory, I began with the shapes and enamel colors and gemstones.  I began with an idea to elevate my enamel work and with no pressure for an upcoming art show, or an agenda to where it would go, I sat down and mapped out my tasks.

My inspirations for this collection are generally what inspires all of my work.  I am drawn to using vibrant colors and pattern and creating jewelry with playful elegance.  I draw inspiration from the imagery of Alice in Wonderland, Beetlejuice, and PeeWee’s Playhouse, surrealism and also my experiences through living in Portugal, a culture that so embraces color and pattern in everyday sights that it is common place.  I am continuously inspired by each of these forms art and architecture that has pushed the line and created a new world of wonder.  

I am thrilled with the outcome, and as it was time to name this collection, there was something more I wanted to commemorate.  To recognize the change of tide of my enamel jewelry, and also to recognize this time in my life, and how this little beach town has been a quiet place for growth and personal development.  My partner and I weathered the pandemic here and watched the seasons change on this beach.  It became a beautiful place to hide from the terrible events happening around the world, and a place to reevaluate what is important for how we live.  A place to have a little studio where I could go to make jewelry, and to be outdoors and discovering new spots to hike and walk on the beach.  I have felt protected here.

Recently, while walking on the beach, I saw a lifeguard and considered this.  I have always loved their title in Portuguese: Nadador Salvador, translated, Swimming Savior.

I recognize the name of this profession as, Lifeguard, and I thought more about the words guard and savior.  It hit me how many pieces in this collection have striped rings in the design, much like the floating devices used in rescue, but also how many of the shapes are reminiscent of guard and shield-shapes, symbols of protection and strength.  

In various ways, we all have come out of this odd-time much stronger and are more joyful and thoughtful about our experiences.  And with this, a celebration of color and a new summer ahead, the Salvador Collection, is my new exploration into playfully elegant jewelry.  It has many stand-out pieces that will be a strong addition to your jewelry collection, with it’s vibrant colors, shapes and gemstones that shimmer.  This collection of wildly colorful jewelry is for bold people who love standing out with unique style and strength.

It’s my pleasure to introduce this new work, the Salvador Collection.