Sep
18
2018
Donna Veverka
Gothic and Renaissance history and architecture inspire my jewelry. Thick rings, wide bracelets and forged chains connect the wearer to an ancient, romantic world. The symmetry of repeated arches, clusters of spires and lines of intricate tracery were decorative elements used for centuries to impress. Blade forms and battlements that once protected castles now effectively guard fingers and necklines. Comfortably dangerous these slightly edgy works stand out from the crowd with a dignified and confident presence.
My studio echoes with the sounds of traditional metalsmithing techniques. The working process involves a combination of lost wax casting, hand-forging, and hand fabrication. Each chain is individually made with links formed, hammered or soldered by hand. Every piece is carefully finished with attention to hammer marks, burnished edges and contrasts between matte and highly polished areas to emphasize the sculptural qualities. Blackened silver surfaces also add a rich depth to each piece.