Abigail Furr

As a recent graduate of the Metalsmithing and Jewelry BFA program at UNT, my research and artistic process has been heavily influenced by the ancient origins of jewelry and the history of symbolism in both visual art and storytelling. While jewelry has evolved over the centuries in terms of style and technique, it has always been a mode of nonverbal communication, whether that be of societal status, interpersonal relationships, or self-expression. Simultaneously, metal as a medium seems to transcend time; in addition to its long history of use and value, metal has a stubborn physical longevity. Many metalsmithing techniques that are taught today are identifiable in artifacts, and when combined with modern technologies and processes, a conversation across time is forged.

In my own artistic practice, I use metal and jewelry forms to explore and revitalize older symbols and stories, examining how they have evolved and continue to affect modern society and contemporary works. The main concepts I have been engaging with in my artwork recently have been rebirth and transformation, and metamorphosis. My body of work consists of necklaces, brooches, bracelets, and earrings. Working primarily with copper and sterling silver, I tend to use a lot of hammer texturing, wire weaving, chain fabrication, vitreous enameling techniques, and patination to create wearable pieces that explore the interplay of naturalistic and mythical symbology in storytelling within a context spanning from ancient to contemporary mythos.