For those who embrace healing, and the otherworldly, Craig Contemporary is a company that is transcendent because we encourage self discovery by offering pieces of art that are grounding and have a one-of-a kind glow

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About Craig Contemporary

Kim Craig

Artist

My pathway to creating jewelry became visible the day I wandered into Jay B. Starkers shop along Main St. while living in Sarasota Florida. I was perusing through a rack of his hand-made photo postcards and laughing at the pictures he had chosen, when Jay approached, his eyes sparkling with mischief. We struck up conversation and I began stopping by to see him and listen to him play music on the piano at the front of his expansive jewelry shop. He was in his late 60's then and was having some health issues so he hired me to help out. Jay called me his, "Man Friday". It was here that the groundwork was laid for Craig Contemporary. I am grateful to have had that time learning from this well-loved artist who had come up in New York in Greenwich Village and had been a part of the Beat Generation. I had never thought about how jewelry was made or understood any of its magical processes but Jay opened that gateway for me to see and I was spellbound by this intricate Universe. 

Designing jewelry that cultivates joy for the person who is wearing it brings me great satisfaction. I explore and ponder the magical processes, healing properties and myths associated with the materials and motifs. I often forage from nature which leads to integrating the beauty of natural elements into my work; from birch bark to cedar seeds fallen from a tree, I find passion intuitively while crafting these elements into art. These pieces are completely individual. When you order the birchbark ring I create the band out of the bark of your choosing. I often have a selection of birchbark from different parts of Canada on my bench.

I have been practicing the art of making jewelry in various forms since my introduction to the craft and have been lucky to be apart of some fun teams in the industry. From fabricating bijoux in Montreal to assisting in a casting studio in Toronto it's been a cool ride.  

“In every work the seeds of new thought are brought to bloom. To the extent that whatever comes forth is appealing to one’s senses, it becomes a welcome addition to our life inventory of pleasantries. The human race is continuing its ancient bent, and once again the art of this time represents what has successfully transpired plus the added magic of the “great manipulator.” I hope to be a part of this process in some small way that jubilance may be brought to one’s life.” 

--- Jay B. Starker 

My paintings are three dimensional abstract emotional expressions. Vast leaves, stalks, flowers and seeds inject a distinction and nuance to the work. My technique of adding and taking away of acrylic paint, the use of found objects, wax, glitter, and stitching, is necessary for the accumulation of layers of colour and the subsequent growth and depth of each piece. My collection explores the relationship between humanity and the earth as a celestial body. I layer found objects and plant material to make fantastical textures. These paintings inquire into soul connections and create conduits to other portals. I'm asking the viewer to drift into contemplation and question their relationships to earth, to themselves and to notice all the little beings in-between.

Watching a person engage with my paintings and seeing the work encourage warmth in spaces is a fulfilling experience.

It is my hope that you will find comfort and feel good living with and wearing these pieces. I appreciate that you are here!

The Artistic Processes + Shipping Info

I like the feeling of creating in the present. For the present moment, emotion or person. I appreciate that experimentation is highly prized within the contemporary art world. I enjoy the freedom of contemporary design and its open door policy on innovation and invention.

The name Craig Contemporary was conceptualized by an old friend. I had cycled through a few business names and cards before she thought of the idea of naming my art contemporary. After we decided on the name I reached out to a graphic designer friend who constructed my logo. Like the Beatles song says, " I get by with a little help from my friends.."

Select the available art and scroll down to bottom of the page to find info on shipping. Each design has a separate description.

If you are purchasing the one - of - a kind jewellery designs they will be shipped out immediately. When you order the birchbark ring I create the band out of the bark of your choosing. It will be shipped to you 2-3 weeks after we sort our your preferences and sizing. 

The jewellery designs that are not labelled as one-of-a-kind I have made into molds. They can be created upon purchase. These pieces are not always kept in stock so please allow 2-3 weeks for creation and for your package to arrive.

I am interested in recycling metals and re-using old jewelry. I love custom designing so please feel free to reach out !! We can discuss what you are looking for and how to integrate your old materials... lets give these forgotten pieces a new creative purpose. 

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Craig Contemporary is a local Toronto artist-run jewelry company. Please send me an email to set up an appointment. Wholesale inquiries are welcome. Thank you for your interest! 

Forest Hill

Toronto, ON Canada

I love my earrings and I love showing them off! 

Jill Waltz
Toronto, Ontario

I am the lucky owner of several of Kim's pieces! You can absolutely feel the positive energy that each creation emits when you put them on. Every one I own is unique and eye catching and people are always asking about them. I can't wait to see what she is working on next !

Jen Bryan
Toronto, Ontario

I have the larger "climb every mountain ring".  As someone who feels most at home in the mountains this ring resonates with me on so many levels. It is light to wear but a strong and durable piece of jewelry. It is a beautiful piece with angled edges that make it look like a different ring just by rotating on the hand. It has a grounding energy and feels so good to wear as an everyday ring. I would highly recommend Craig Contemporary jewelry as a beautiful addition to your jewelry collection.

Lauren Black
Airdrie, Alberta