Six times a year, we welcome a new visiting guest local artist into Riverside Collective. For September and October, we are thrilled to have another jeweler in residence, Glean Design. We caught up with Janet to ask a few questions about her process and her art.
What inspires your art?
I have always believed in the body as a venue to make connections through displays of identity. I believe that these opportunities are ripe to spark conversation on shared aesthetics and values. Our uncertain ecological future drives my choices of working with abandoned natural, industrial and residential materials. Transforming these into contemporary jewelry and wall jewelry is the heart of my practice
How does Saxapahaw influence your art?
It was probably 8 years ago that I was first a vendor at the Sax Holiday Market. I remember thinking that finally THIS is the exact crowd of people that I want wearing my jewelry!
If you were to speak for your art how would you fill in these prompts?
I feel…happy to be noticed
I need…more wear
I am…so happy that I have been saved from the scrap pile
What’s your favorite tool and why?
Well, suddenly it's become my Opti-visor, without it I can't see to do the work!
What’s one thing that someone who isn’t a jewelry artist or metal worker wouldn’t know about what you do?
Metal is so malleable and wonderful to work with. There is pieces of it everywhere for you to experiment on.
What idea or concept are you chewing on as an artist right now? Has it shown up in your work yet?
Future Fossils, so we can all find out what happens......currently working on it for a show in December.
Are you a rebel with your art in any way? How does that make it better?
I love when people wear their values proudly. I have made much more subversive jewelry in the past, but am taking a break with that now.
Join us for an Artist Reception for Glean Design on Sunday the 28th of September from 2-4pm at Riverside Collective!