Behind The Medusas
How did the idea and design for the Medusas come about?
During that time, I often found myself in my studio alone for long periods of time. About seven months into my jewelry-making journey, I continued to feel highly inspired in my flow state. Those long workdays, ranging from 12 to 14 hours, almost felt like I was in a constant state of deep meditation. I was getting ready for my yearly trip to Burning Man in the desert and wanted to create something special to wear.
I aimed to make something that showed strength and mirrored my deep connection to this yearly event. For me, Burning Man is a very meaningful experience. Every year I attend, I come back with lots of new ideas, fresh inspiration, and a sense of freedom from old beliefs that had been holding me back.
The snake represents letting go of what no longer serves us and the renewal of our inner selves, a rebirth of the soul. As I worked on my craft one evening, my fingers skillfully shaped the first version of what would later become our most popular and cherished design.
Featured above: THE MEDUSA EARRINGS (ORIGINAL SIZE) in Onyx
Why do you think these earrings have been a bestseller?
These earrings possess a distinct ethereal aura, and whenever they're worn, they seem to exert an irresistible pull on people. Their captivating allure is undeniable, and they have a remarkable ability to enhance the appearance of anyone who adorns them. We instantly feel radiant and empowered when we put them on, and this activation of self-love emanates outwardly.
When we feel beautiful, we become more attuned to the beauty in others, creating a potent cycle of energy exchange between ourselves and our surroundings. I've also witnessed these earrings gracing a wide range of occasions, from casual t-shirt and jeans outfits to weddings and even red carpet events. When you invest in jewelry, versatility is undoubtedly a key consideration!
When it comes to "collecting" jewelry, what do you think makes a piece worth keeping (and wearing) forever?
Jewelry holds a deeply personal significance. It's an item we acquire primarily because of the emotions it stirs when we gaze upon it, touch it, and wear it. It can also serve as a meaningful vessel for memories, especially when it's a family heirloom or an item that once belonged to a cherished person no longer with us.
When you're selecting jewelry that will stand the test of time, it's crucial to be attuned to how it makes you feel in its presence. Additionally, the materials should be sturdy enough to endure everyday wear and tear. Your chosen piece should be a source of pride and a reflection of your inner self.
What is a significant moment of the medusas for you?
The Medusas have truly gained a life of their own in the media, but one particularly memorable experience stands out in my mind. It was the first opportunity we received to showcase this design at a major televised event—the 2020 Oscars Red Carpet!
Ten Morrow, an incredibly talented designer, was heading to the Oscars to accompany her husband, Steven Morrow, for his work in sound on the film "Ford V Ferrari." She reached out to me on social media, inquiring if she could purchase a pair to complement the dress she was designing for the event.
My excitement was off the charts—I couldn't contain myself, and I burst into sheer euphoria. At one point, both Sarah Jones, my studio director, and I were ecstatically screaming and jumping for joy in the studio. It was an incredible feeling, knowing that someone recognized the unique appeal of our designs and chose to wear them to such a globally recognized and significant event. It was a truly beautiful and unforgettable moment!
There have been various styles of the Medusa collection in the past 4 years, where do you want to take this design in the future?
Get ready to discover fresh colors and jewelry styles! Moreover, I have grand plans to broaden my range of ethereal serpent-inspired symbolism, extending beyond the world of jewelry into areas like home decor, accessories and textiles. I've harbored this expansion idea for quite a while, and I'm excited to announce that these new offerings will be making their debut in 2024!