Like most women we know, we’re suckers for jewelry. From sweet and delicate to fun and funky, we’re always looking to add a new “favorite” to our collections. That’s why we’re thrilled to be collaborating with local Bay Area-based designer Shelly Harper!
Shelly’s brass pieces are modern, cool and make a statement. As Shelly describes, her jewelry is “meant to empower, flatter and accentuate the true nature of the wearer.” Shelly took the time to sit down with us to let us into her design process. Click Read More to read her interview!
Image may be NSFW.
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Q: How would you describe your work?
My work is versatile and approachable. It spans the spectrum from everyday wear, to statement pieces for special occasions. Each piece of jewelry is handmade and no two pieces are completely alike. I use brass and gold in geometric and organic forms to create jewelry meant to empower, flatter, and accentuate the true nature of the wearer.
Q: Where do you look for inspiration?
I grew up in Santa Barbara, California where my dad, an urchin diver for over 30 years, took me to the docks from a very young age. I remember being enchanted by the heavy, aged equipment he used on dives. These beautifully worn, hefty metals – be it anchors, chains, weight-belts, or mechanical parts – have heavily influenced my work.
I also take a lot of inspiration from the city I now call home, Oakland. The art scene here is young and fearless while still giving a nod to the past and creators who have laid the foundation for innovation.
Q: What/who are/have been your biggest influences?
Byzantine jewelry for its use of high-karat gold and tool impressions; South-Western and Native American textiles for their intricate geometric forms; and American 1970’s & ‘80’s accessories for their bold, statement pieces and reinterpretation of gender roles in fashion.
Q: What would you say are the most important tenets of great design?
A well-designed piece should be at the same time an extension and an elevation of the wearer’s taste.
And for the rapid fire, fill-in-the-blank section:
Q: I like to make my mark by… hammering.
Q: Best advice I ever received… “patience is a virtue.”
Q: If I could, I would… lay in the sun …everyday.
Q: On Sundays, find me… running at beautiful Lake Merritt.
Q: My signature drink is… bourbon on the rocks.
Q. Hot sauce & butter …are always in my fridge.
Q: I’m secretly addicted to… thrift store shopping
Thanks again Shelly for giving us a peek into your inspirations!
SHOP all of Shelly Harper’s Jewelry HERE
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