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!