Elaine Unzicker

I combine stainless and anodized aluminum chain mail interlocked by hand to create unique purses and wearable art. In addition, I embellish the chain mail surface with castings from nature in bronze or gold-plated brass, for example, cast pistachio shells decorate a purse. I also use natural stones, such as pearls, to soften the chain mail surface. The fluid movement of the mesh allows me to create art that caresses and conforms to the body. A new interpretation of my work happens each time a person wears it. The metalwork becomes a statement for the wearer and allows them to become what they feel at the moment. It is as if the human body is my stage and the performance takes place when the article is worn.