John Michael Sullivan - You Can't Smell the Flowers on Your Grave

Artist: John Michael Sullivan, Colorado
Materials: 304 stainless steel, rose petals
Size: 7.5
Dimensions: 1" x 1" x 0.5"

Artist Statement: To "stop and smell the roses" is to be mindful of the present moment. To be aware of your surroundings and to take in the experience of simply being alive. This ring was inspired by traditional memento mori and Victorian mourning jewelry. Taking the form of a hollow construction ring, this hand fabricated stainless steel ring houses dried rose pedals as a token reminder to take the time to consciously appreciate this beautifully ephemeral life.

Artist Bio: John Sullivan is an artist, metalsmith, jeweler, and educator, whose work focuses on psychology, neuropsychology, and interpersonal relationships. Working as a contemporary artist and metalsmith, John explores the themes and issues surrounding dysfunctional relationships, psychological disorders, and trauma. John recently graduated with his Master of Fine Art from SUNY, New Paltz. John is now an Affiliate Instructor of Metalsmithing and Jewelry and a Studio Technician at the Metropolitan State University of Denver in Colorado. Prior to graduate school, John was the Sponsor Coordinator and a board member of the Colorado Metalsmithing Association and an apprentice to artist Ira Sherman. John has exhibited work at a number of national and international venues as well as having been published in numerous domestic and foreign publications.


Watch a video of this ring HERE!


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.