Since arriving in California four decades ago, I’ve been immersed in a continuous creative exploration. Painting, collaging, sewing, and embroidering—I experimented with a variety of mediums before discovering my true passion: beads. My work repairing and re-imagining vintage beaded jewelry became more than just a profession; it evolved into a deep dive into the rich history and artistry of this ancient craft. This experience gifted me a treasure trove of beautiful beads, semi-precious and precious stones, and found objects—each piece whispering a story and waiting to be reborn through my artistic vision. Now, at Arte’de fakt studios, I bring these elements to life in unique, non-traditional, wearable art that transcends trends and celebrates individuality.
At Arte’de fakt studios, I handcraft beaded jewelry with a focus on artistry and originality. I work with a diverse palette of materials, including semi-precious and precious stones (like quartz, amethyst, and turquoise), luminous pearls, captivating ancient Roman glass, fine and sterling silver, copper, brass, and 14kt gold, as well as natural materials like silk, leather, and wire. As a self-taught artist, I embrace a boundless creative spirit. I celebrate the inherent beauty of natural materials, even those deemed “imperfect” by conventional standards. Just as nature is beautifully flawed, so too should every individual have access to adornments that reflect their unique personality, free from the constraints of rigid perfection. My jewelry is designed to empower self-expression and connect the wearer to the earth’s natural beauty.
My artistic journey is constantly evolving. I’m now expanding my repertoire to include silversmithing, a new avenue of exploration that excites me with its endless possibilities. I’m also deepening my understanding of stones—from collecting and cutting them to the art of polishing (or intentionally leaving them raw), experimenting with the dynamic interplay of mixed metals, and exploring the intricate world of casting techniques. There is always something new to learn, something new to explore, and I am passionate about sharing these artistic expressions with you through Arte’de fakt studios. My work at Arte’de fakt studios is about creating heirloom-quality jewelry, pieces that are not only beautiful but also imbued with meaning and designed to be cherished for generations.