Erin Austin - Growing

Artist: Erin Austin, California
Materials: sterling silver, ruby, rose quartz, garnet
Size: 8.5
Dimensions: 2.75" length x 1.55" width (height without band .3", band width .16")

Artist Statement: This ring was a coming together of previously explored ideas and techniques into one piece bursting with life. Creating this ring was a growing experience for me both technically and aesthetically. Undulating sterling silver wire meets floral silhouettes. Elements of the band extend beyond function, wrapping their way into the visible bouquet. Ruby, garnet, and rose quartz cabochons are nestled within the blackened silver with no regard for which may be perceived as more valuable. Instead, each element plays a part in holding, supporting, or connecting the others just as we might find flora interacting in the natural world.

Artist Bio: Erin Austin is a metals artist as well as an educator at Cal Poly Humboldt. Her work often revolves around humanity’s relationship with the “natural” world. She is currently working on the development of biodegradable materials like paper and bioplastics created from garden plants and foraged mushrooms, delving into the world of stop motion and 2D animation, and exploring where these avenues may interact with metals and jewelry. She received a BA from HSU in 2007 and will receive an MFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in 2023. Her work has recently been exhibited at the Society of Arts and Crafts, made its runway debut at the Society of North American Goldsmiths 2021 Exhibition in Motion, and received a Juror’s Choice Award in the Lewton-Brian 2021 International Foldform Competition.

This ring is part of Battle of the Rings: Ring Smackdown 2022, an online exhibition and competition. Shop the entire collection HERE, view the matches HERE, and learn more HERE.

Rings from this collection will ship or be available for pick up after the competition concludes on April 29.