Best Local Modern Jewelry Artists
Bold shapes, memorable designs and unique statements define this list of artists producing modern, wearable works of art. With room for a select few, many more can be found in boutiques and gift stores throughout the Twin Cities and online.
Art Leather
Artist Andrea Renee Terhaar, recently relocated from the Twin Cities to Brussels, Belgium, credits her background in art history and international boutique and thrift shopping for her unmistakable split-leather necklaces, cuffs and earrings. Search: Cliché, Gallery 360, A. Michele Boutique and Etsy.
BMF Jewelry
Brittany Foster has been passionate about jewelry since the age of 12. She has been educating herself about jewelry since then and today, has her own line of metal pieces with an alternative spin. She has a strong vision and strives to see it through whether she's designing a custom piece or hand-sawing tiny details into an earring. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, belt buckles and custom orders.
Gia Gifford
With a restrained approach to design inspired by nature and architecture, Gia's metal collection has a quiet yet powerful energy. Thick rings mixed with simple designs and bold shapes made out of a delicate cut will add a clear statement to anyone's jewelry collection. Rings, necklaces and earrings. Available for purchase at Walker Art Center Gift Shop, Gallery 360 and several other locations throughout Minnesota.
Infrared Studio
Distinctive lasercut designs -- from skulls to fleur de lis -- mark this edgy collection designed by Lauren Nicole Pierce. The artist also has a gorgeous line of pearls-and-metal for the bridal party as well as antique charms and chakra stones to connect us to our spiritual side. Cliché, local and national art fairs. In-home events and custom orders on request.
Jennifer Merchant
Acrylic and corian are the base materials for this bold, trendy collection that reminds me of the 80s. Earrings and bangles are the most visible with an interesting flower brooch made out of recycled materials to diversify the line. She was recently featured as part of Voltage Fashion Amplified during Minnesota's fashion week. Available for purchase at Parc Boutique, I Like You, Design Collective and Etsy.
Jill Smith
Oxidized silver and semi-precious stones are signature features this beautiful collection featured in shops throughout the Twin Cities. Jill's background in architecture provides a foundation for her mixing of various shapes with pops of color. Necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Gallery 360, Karma, Walker Art Center Gift Shop, Key North (exclusive designs), Guthrie Store, Maha! Inspired Activewear.
Potpourri
The contrast of wood and stone creates a striking look. Artist Allison Johnson, based in the Northrup King building, brings her architectural schooling to a collection dominated by earrings. Potpourri can be found at shops throughout the Twin Cities including I Like You and online via Etsy.
Silver Cocoon
Design team Tia Salmela Keobounpheng and Souliyahn Keobounpheng have an ambitious business that spans from architecture and art installments to products and jewelry. A light, airy texture -- sometimes visual and sometimes tactile -- runs through their showcase of design clearly inspired by Tia's Finnish background. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets. Walker Art Center Gift Shop and via their online store.
Yen Chee Design
Sharp angles mixed with organic lines drew my attention to this collection at the Walker Art Center Gift Shop. A simple color palette based around silver, quartz and onyx allow the strong design elements to take center stage. Necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets and cufflinks. Also available for purchase online.
-Sasha Westin is a local image consultant specializing in helping people learn how to dress in their best colors and styles. She shares client makeovers, style basics and outfit ideas on the Fabuliss blog, hosts an open discussion called #stylechat Sunday nights on Twitter and is passionate about helping everyone have success with style.
