April Ottey - Flower Power-Ruby and Succulent

This piece was part of the Yukata Jewelry Show 2022 exhibition. Learn more and view the entire collection HERE.

Artist: April Ottey
Materials: rough cut ruby, cast sterling silver succulent
Size: 9.5 

Artist Statement: When I was asked if I wanted to participate in this show, I thought it sounded like fun and a good design challenge. This piece of fabric is bright and cheerful and conjures up images of the garden in the middle of summer which in the middle of a pacific northwest winter is exactly what we all need. The patterns, colors and groupings on the fabric inspired me to create these big botanical rings that could be worn to a garden party. The raw rubies, emeralds and sapphires reflect the colors of the fabric and the colors of the garden and sky.

Artist Bio: I create work that explores the transformative power of nature. I focus on the intricate details of the natural world. The delicate petals of a blossom, the geometry of a fallen seedpod or the texture of tree bark are transformed into jewelry that captures the feeling of inspiration and awe that arise when I’m standing among the first flowers of springs, deep in a pine forest, or in the wet gravelly sand of the beach at low tide. I've been making jewelry for 25 years Shortly after getting an MFA in photography, I turned my attention to metalsmithing and never looked back. I taught high school art and metalsmithing for 10 years before pursuing metalsmithing full time. My studio overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca near Port Townsend, WA. where I am inspired by the mountains, waves and plants around me.