75% of the ocean’s coral reefs are threatened and over 20% have died in the last 30 years. At this rate, coral could disappear from our world entirely by the year 2100. The intention of my work is to remind people of the beauty and life that lies in the ocean through representation and re-presentation of natural organisms. Due to its sheer size, the ocean remains largely unexplored. We may never know all of the species and mysteries that lie within it. Confronting people with the wonder and harsh reality within our oceans, can result in recognition, appreciation, and/or possibly action towards saving the ocean. This result is what I hope to accomplish through my work.
The organic forms in my body of work mimic, replicate, abstract, or are reminiscent of the natural forms of the ocean. Kinetic elements move with the wearer and bring the work to life. The movement of polyps, plants, and animals in the ocean is a graceful and entrancing display. Bright colors and natural patterns lure the viewer to a piece and induce a sense of wonder towards the inspiration behind it. My color choices are inspired by the vivid colors of oceanic life. Whether for protection or attraction, color is very important to creatures, corals, and plants in the ocean. I hope to draw the viewer in using the same technique.
The pieces I make draw people in through color and movement. These seductive strategies engage the viewer and spark a personal connection to the work. Oceans are the largest part of our world, but oddly, the creatures within them seem the most alien. I hope that my work will inspire people to learn more about the subject matter behind it.
Artist Statement
Curriculum Vitae
Education
Temple University, Tyler School of Art | Philadelphia, PA, 2016
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Major in Metals/Jewelry/Cad-Cam
San Diego State University | San Diego, CA, Currently enrolled
Master of Fine Arts in Jewelry and Metalwork
Experience
Digital Fabrication Technician | San Diego State University, San Diego CA, January 2018 – Present
Run machines, assist students, communication skills, conflict resolution, and being responsible for others.
Teaching Assistant | San Diego State University, San Diego CA, August to December 2017
Assist running and instructing a class, communication skills, conflict resolution, being responsible for others.
Assistant to Joan Strott Alvini | Philadelphia PA, 2016- 2017
Jeweler’s assistant, enameling, assisting with a Cloisonne Class, business skills, finishing.
Manufacturer, Mark Haug Jewelry and Repair | Philadelphia PA, 2015- 2017
Jeweler’s assistant, business skills, soldering, mold making, wax working, finishing.
Intern, Paolo Mangano Metal Arts Studio | Rome, Italy, 2015
Jeweler’s assistant, business skills, soldering, bezel setting, mold making, chain making, and the production of glass beads
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Animal Keeper and Tour Guide, Barn Nature Center | Doylestown, PA, 2014-2017
Tour guide, excellent customer service skills, answering phone calls, e-mails, and event planning.
Skills
Fabrication: Soldering, silversmithing, Polishing, Wax Carving, Lost Wax Casting, Mold Making, Laser Cutting, Hydraulic press forming, photo etching, Silicone, and enameling.
Computer: Rhinoceros 5.0, Magics RP, Flamingo Rendering, ZEdit, Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Office
Awards/Exhibitions
Dean’s List | 2012-Present (excluding the one year outside academia)
Tyler Foundations Exhibition | Stella Elkins Tyler Gallery, Philadelphia, PA, 2012
Tiny Biennale | Temple Rome Art Gallery, Rome, Italy, 2015
Student Exhibition | Temple Rome Art Gallery, Rome, Italy, 2015
MJCC Senior Exhibition | Tyler School of Art, Philadelphia, PA, 2016
Tyler Annual Student Exhibition | Tyler School of Art, Philadelphia, PA, 2016
Whimsey: An Exhibition by Julia Schechner | Stella Elkins, Tyler School of Art, Philadelphia,
Wiggleroom: 2017 SDSU Graduate Art Exhibition| University Arts Gallery, San Diego State University, 2017
Transforming Existence | San Diego State University Downtown Gallery, 2018
