Bateaux Earrings

Oxidized sterling silver, pearl, rose quartz, pyrite, amazonite, and sterling silver ear wires

2 inches long × 1/2 inch wide × 1 1/4 inches deep

The objects I make are inspired by architecture, by nature as architect, and by my desire to build. The process of building captivates me, and from that building process how decisions are made, items are organized, and structures grow from an idea. In regard to architecture and structure, my current body of work explores the elegant forms of ancient sea vessels. In terms of nature as architect, I am inspired by the array of colors, forms, and shapes found in deep-sea creatures and specifically those of different species of octopus and jellyfish. Striving to find a balance aesthetically between the industrial and natural worlds with a focus on functionality, I approach the design of my structures with curiosity before building through different processes of fabrication, casting, cold-connecting, soldering, etching, and die forming.

Artist Bio:
Sarah C. Chapman has worked as a studio jeweler, metalsmith, and educator for over 25 years. Chapman makes hand-fabricated metal jewelry and sculpture, aesthetically merging the industrial and natural worlds with an emphasis on functionality. Sarah shows her work in galleries and juried exhibitions across the country and currently maintains an active studio practice in Minneapolis.