shibumi+shibusa

Be mine?

2012-02-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

I really loved one client's approach in her decision process to own one of my rings:

1. Try on ring.
2. Fall in love.
3. Realize she never got a wedding ring because she didn't find anything she loved.
4. Take iphone photo of ring on her hand in Shibumi gallery.
5. Contemplate decision at home putting iphone photo over her hand.
6. Come visit ring again with husband.
7. Decide it is perfect.
8. Purchase.
9. Size.
10. Celebrate!

Thanks for the inspiration and photo Wendy!

Happy Valentine's All!

2011-12-05T20:06:00.000-08:00

Sea and Sky: April Higashi and Aondrea Maynard

Review by Ahna Adair

April Higashi has made her name on her skillful and organic style of enameling. Building layers of color in a painterly fashion she creates small and wearable artworks rooted in a reverence for nature. Conversely, Aondrea Maynard paints large canvases in which she distills moments unseen yet present in the natural world around us. A smart pairing, the show “Sea & Sky” is a look at the evocative ways in which artists become inspired by the natural world and their relationship to it. Each artist, though very different in chosen medium and scale, is working from a deep and intuitive place, attempting to assign materiality to the intangible realm of experience.

'Ma' Brooch: painted enamel, diamond slices, 18kyg, oxidized silver

Higashi is currently navigating the challenges of new motherhood, owning and operating a gallery and continuing an art practice of her own. Despite this hectic work environment, her new collection has a sense of peace and stillness. A subtle shift has occurred in her enamels as vibrant patterns spread over the whole surface have been left behind for a more sparse imagery with soft white backgrounds. “Ma” Brooch (painted enamel, oxidized silver, 18k yellow gold, and diamond slices) exhibits a single bare branch, rendered fuzzy as if seen through thick fog. About this new aesthetic Higashi says, “I wanted to arrive at a subtle beauty that gives the viewer a sense of calm. This quiet place is a space that I crave, even if only enjoyed for the smallest moments.” These new enamels are small homages to the awe-inspiring effect of nature. Perhaps by pointing our gaze at artwork instilled with this awe we may be able to steel a moment away from the busy, overscheduled day to day.

'Shiro' Brooch: fossilized coral, black diamonds, 24&18k gold

Higashi’s reverence for nature comes through in not only the imagery painted on her enamels but the materials she uses as well. Shiro Brooch (fossilized coral, black diamonds, 24&18k gold) offers the viewer a relic from the past. Embellished very sparingly with a faux branch reproduced from gold and set with black diamonds gives the piece a feeling of elaborate repair. Like many jewelers, Higashi works with precious metals, stones and pearls. Always careful to use only those that are responsible and sustainable, her eye falls on the peculiar. The pearls, stones and other precious materials seen in this show shed light on her special interest in the beauty of imperfection. Those things that nature makes sub-par or irregular, according to market standards, are the very materials that she covets. The asymmetry of a branch of fossilized coral, a domé pearl originally used as a test to make cultured pearls, and raw diamonds mined decades ago to make industrial tools hold the spotlight in this extensive body of new work.

Lover, 2011: oil on wood panel, 22" x 60"

Aondrea Maynard’s paintings are at once beautiful and haunting. Capturing the liminal, she creates a visual language for the moments that happen in between what we might consider regular and documentable events. In many of her paintings, namely Lover (oil on wood), light and color are a strong focus and occupy the canvas with as much weight as line and shape. What looks like puffs of smoke, upward moving steam, and currents of air are rendered as tangible as a full moon or the silhouette of tree tops. A reoccurring shape appears, reminiscent of the end of a cello or violin or perhaps the ubiquitous Acanthus leaf. In Whaling Song, the shape has such a weight and shadow that it becomes animate, a living and breathing being. For the artist it is a shape that feels good to paint and her body has a natural tendency towards it. In this way a language specific to the artists physicality has become part of the visual language of her painting.

Whaling Song, 2011: oil on wood panel, 40" x 36"

Challenges of sustaining a successful art practice are present for both artists. In Maynard’s short talk given during the show opening she spoke of the dangers of getting stuck in an aesthetic that sells well. For a painter whose aim is to paint the invisible, she has to try to shelve this looming demand of marketability and get to that deeper place that many artists seek. For Higashi and Maynard continuing a successful studio practice while striving toward their true creative vision is not easy in the midst of life’s daily challenges. In “Sea & Sky” we are offered an unusual comparison of the work of two artists, a jeweler and painter. Similarly inspired, the careers of two women converge at Shibumi Gallery as they exhibit their most recent bodies of work.

For those unable to steel a moment from their day-to-day, visit Shibumi Gallery's Flickr page where you will find April Highashi's jewelry collection, Aondrea Maynard's paintings as well as photos from the opening.

April Higashi Jewlery + Aondrea Maynard Paintings 'Sea & Sky'

2011-11-10T15:03:00.001-08:00

The 'Sea & Sky' show, an elegant and dreamy pairing of jewelry and paintings, will be up through December 04, 2011.

April Higashi, 'Ma' Brooch, painted enamel, oxidized silver, 18k yellow gold, diamond slices

Ma' is not something that is created by compositional elements; it is the thing that takes place in the imagination of the human who experiences these elements. It is best described as a consciousness of place, not in the sense of an enclosed three-dimensional entity, but rather the simultaneous awareness of form and non-form deriving from an intensification of vision

Aondrea Maynard, Midnight Swoon, oil on wood panel

My paintings are a visual dialogue between myself and the natural world, a narrative of my own inner journey and the metaphorical landscapes found there. Nature itself in perfect harmony has always been a powerfully soothing presence in my life, one that inspires my work continuously.

My paintings are portraits of dreams, memories, moments in silence and abstractions all infused with the appreciation and wonder of the beauty of this natural world, its unspoken wisdom and limitless grace.

April Higashi, Nori Necklace, enamel, pencil, oxidized silver, 1920's steel cut beads

This body of work is more direct, as coral-like branches are rendered to appear as if captured in a mist. The images are painted in layers using graphite, enamel and china paint. They are partially hidden creating an atmosphere of distance that asks the viewer to leave them to exist in their own quiet suspended space.

April Higashi + Aondrea Maynard, November 2011

More photos of the show & reception

Aondrea Maynard Paintings

check back for photos of April Higashi Jewelry of current show.... coming soon.

Aondrea Maynard Paintings

2011-11-09T16:35:00.001-08:00

Aondrea Maynard Paintings, a set on Flickr.
Part of the 'Sea & Sky' show up at Shibumi through December 04, 2011

News on the Mountain...

2011-09-30T14:15:00.001-07:00

Fiona Mork, Shibumi's Gallery Manager / Enamelist was featured on Penland's website while taking a class last month.

We are happy to hire craft's people who have a strong dedication to making and understand the creative process. All of the people who work at Shibumi Studio & Gallery have an education in Art, Jewelry and/or Sculpture, including our book keeper.

April Higashi - NEW WORK

2011-07-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

APRIL HIGASHI . artist statement

The world of craft is a surreal place after the birth of my son last year. Before that momentous occasion, the space of making held more weight in my life. Now, though it is still important to me, it is met with a feeling of lightness. I am sometimes haunted by how to merge motherhood with making and my daily efforts to create new work are approached through a foggy veil. The many days and weeks spent creating these pieces where dedicated to unearthing a complexity from a chaos of new ideas that have occupied my mind and my studio. Hopefully when resolved and finished the works retain a mysterious presence and offer a space for peace and stillness. The enamels and fossilized coral pieces in this group capture this feeling of solace.

The abstract imagery painted in my enamels in the past emerged after snorkeling in Hawaii above the natural coral reefs. Swimming above the majestic beauty, I did not want to directly copy what I saw but instead convey the feelings experienced as I looked at the forms and moved through the water. This group of work is more direct, as coral-like branches are rendered to appear as if captured in a mist. The images are painted in layers using graphite, enamel and china paint. They are partially hidden creating an atmosphere of distance that asks the viewer to leave them to exist in their own quiet suspended space. I have accented these pieces with prong set diamond slice fragments, black diamonds and rose cut moonstones. The beads are French steel cut beads from the 1930's that add an eccentricity rooted in fashionable jewelry of this era. I have used bead setting as a reference to this antique jewelry, yet left surfaces smooth and sculptural.

This is a time for more awareness of our resources and greater efforts in recycling these objects of beauty. Reflecting my appreciation for nature, the pearls, coral, moonstones and diamonds in this group were bought from sustainable sources. The pearls are special fresh water American pearls harvested from the Tennessee River mostly from mussels. This second generation family business has spent over 50 years collecting pearls from our rivers and lakes. The dome pearls were originally used as a test for making cultured pearls. I have bought the remainder of this company's supply of these pearls. The companies that harvest the coral take only dead coral that is no longer feeding other species of sea life. The brilliant cut diamonds were bought from older estate jewelry. As a jewelry maker l bring my interpretation with the hope that there will always be a desire for a new perspective both in fashion and art.

'Ma' Brooch, painted enamel, diamond slices, 18k yellow gold, oxidized silver

('Ma' is not something that is created by compositional elements; it is the thing that takes place in the imagination of the human who experiences these elements.It is best described as a consciousness of place, not in the sense of an enclosed three-dimensional entity, but rather the simultaneous awareness of form and non-form deriving from an intensification of vision.)

The show is up at Gallery Lulo through 7/30/11. The new work will be shown at Shibumi Gallery opening November 5th, 2011 with an extension of this series. This will be the first solo show at Shibumi of April's work since she opened Shibumi in 2005.

Darcy Miro at Shibumi Gallery

2011-05-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

Review by Ahna Adair

Since she began her art practice, Darcy Miro has covered an extensive territory with her metalwork. Her ability to adapt to various art markets is noteworthy, operating within the fields of fashion, design, art jewelry, and sculpture. Comfortable dwelling in the minute and the gigantic, her resume lists high profile projects such as her participation in the façade design of the American Folk Art Museum in 2001 with architects Tod Williams and Billie Tsien.

Pierce and Stripe Cuff, 2011, oxidized silver, black diamonds, 2.5"x 3"x 2"

The collection showing at Shibumi Gallery consists primarily of pendants and cuffs with some earrings and rings interspersed. Their arrangement on a white exhibition table brings attention to the specimen like quality of the work and peering down at over 50 small abstract forms is not unlike a visit to the natural history museum. A slight break in continuum from her raw and imperfect aesthetic happens with the pendants strung on smooth black ribbon. Here the viewer is plainly reminded that these objects function as pieces of adornment.

Medium Pendant Seven, 2011, oxidized silver, black ribbon, 1.75" x 3.25"

While the work is a cohesive body of jewelry, Miro does not identify as a jeweler, preferring instead the broader title of metal sculptor. Balancing between the mark of nature and that of the maker, her forms are intuitively constructed, translated first into wax and then cast in sterling silver and 18k yellow gold. The majority of the pieces in the show, far from pristine and highly polished, are treated with a dark patina, leaving solder and scorched metal exposed.

Short Stitch Cuff, 2011, oxidized silver, black diamonds, 2.5"x 3"x 2"

Her rich textures, referencing nature, architecture and the body, are a sultry marriage of the primordial and the high tech; what once was becomes tangled with what is. Each piece functions as a fleeting moment, a snapshot of the artist’s psyche as her conscious and unconscious observations of the day-to-day spill out onto the wax to eventually be made permanent in metal. Subtly sprinkled with black diamonds, the familiar sparkle acts as a sugarcoating as if to assure us that what we are looking at is beautiful. And it is.

Wire Tie Ring, 2011, oxidized silver, black diamonds, 1" x 1" x 1"

Miro’s upcoming projects include installations at E.L. Butler in NYC, Art Basel in Miami and a large wall relief in Abu Dhabi.

Ahna Adair is a jeweler, artist and writer based in Oakland, CA.

Darcy Miro Show

2011-04-06T13:36:00.000-07:00

The Darcy Miro Show is up through the end of May 2011.

Always best to see the work in person. Sculptural....avaunt- guard.
Come be inspired by this original show.

Here is the online show portfolio

Happy New Year!

2011-01-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

SHIBUMI GALLERY IS 5.
To thank you for your patronage please take 20% off any one item during the month of January 2011!This offer excludes new commissions and may exclude rare diamond rings and some sculptures.

Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with riches and subtle beauty!

warm regards,
April, Fiona, Chris, Shaya and Taylor

Holiday Hours

2010-12-15T12:39:00.000-08:00

This last week we are open extra hours:

December 18 & 19 Saturday & Sunday 11-6
December 20 - 24 Monday -Friday 11-6
& by appointment

closed January 1 & 2, 2011

Holiday Party

2010-11-30T19:37:00.001-08:00

Holiday Party: Thursday December 9th from 5-8pm

Shibumi Gallery hosts their Annual Holiday Party and opening preview of Karen Gilbert's jewelry for trunk show the following weekend. (11 & 12) Karen will be in attendance for the holiday party.

Music by Seth Augustus. Hot apple cider with whiskey + holiday treats will be served. All purchase for this night will be 10% off only!

Sponsored by Trumer Beer

2010-10-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

Raïssa Bump: “Circulation”

Musings on her current body of work followed by a conversation with the artist.

There is something so irresistible in the prospect of tying up loose ends and making honest work out of our starts and stutters. It’s an urge that permeates across disciplines and vocations. At some point we’ve all yearned to find a home for our unfinished things, a place where they can rest and in turn put our mind at rest. Raïssa Bump has taken this simple urge and expanded on it, creating a complex body of work that utilizes her unfinished bits and pieces, collected over a 20-year period, in combinations to make brooches, earrings, and necklaces.

But this work is more than just sorting out old projects and sifting through unfinished endeavors. In an intricate collaboration with herself, this body of jewelry collages together pieces made by the artist at varying stages along her journey as a maker. Pieces from the 7-year old Raïssa combine with those from the 27-year old Raïssa and as if before your eyes, they become new again. She has thoughtfully folded in each part with skill and sophistication, allowing each new piece to stand on it’s own. The end result is a body of jewelry, both edgy and elegant.

In compliment to this current project, the show includes a selection of Bumps knitwear. Working back and forth within jewelry and knitwear, Bump engages in a constant conversation between these two dynamic segments of her studio practice. Her humble yet sexy garments hang in the gallery as a backdrop, illustrating her complete vision of adornment as a vehicle for non-verbal communication and self-expression.

Raïssa Bump received her B.F.A. in Jewelry and Metals at Rhode Island School of Design and studied at Alchimia School of Contemporary Jewelry in Florence Italy. She has taught at various colleges including the revered Penland School of Crafts and locally at Diablo Valley College. I had the opportunity to talk with her about her practice and her current body of work being shown at Shibumi Gallery in Berkeley. Read what Raïssa has to say about her current show, “Circulation” and then go see the work.

One of the last things that we were talking about at your opening was sketching in 3-dimensions with tangible objects vs. making an actual drawing and you said that it was difficult for you to get ideas out by planning on paper. On the other hand there are artists who need that plan or blueprint before they can begin to make a piece. So, what is it about that type of artist production that is more fruitful for you?

Probably because, in one way, my skills with drawing are not as developed but that’s besides the point because I think if drawing felt right to me I would find ways to make it more of an outlet. I certainly don’t feel like I need a blueprint before I start. Regardless of where the idea is, I like to have a tangible beginning point and then just work from there and evaluate as I go along.

I work through my hands. That’s where my spirit connects. I think it’s how I experience life too. It’s more about the experience and being able to see it instead of just imagine it. I can respond a lot more to that. And for me it’s harder to make decisions if something doesn’t already exist. I find that I can be more responsive and have a clearer idea about a piece when I’m brainstorming in 3-dimensions. And after all, the end result is a 3-dimensional thing. That’s probably why I have so many leftovers.

Right, instead of a sketchbook you probably have boxes and piles and things like that.

Yeah, its gives me more information. For the most part, I sketch after I already have an idea I’m working out in 3-dimensions and I say to myself, “before I go to the next stage I’m going to draw this out in different sizes so I can get a visual. Or I cut it out in paper. Paper is more tactile.

So then, along those lines how do you know when you’re finished? How do you know when you have reached the end product so to speak?

That’s not always so direct and so easy. I have a table where I have bits and pieces that I’ll arrange in a composition. I’ll leave it like that for a day or maybe I’ll move it around or add something else and feel it out. It’s a lot of intuition, of allowing time. It doesn’t always happen fast. I look at a composition for a while and then I start putting it together, actually constructing it. Eventually I wear it around my studio and sometimes out on the streets. I have to put it on the body and see how it wears, see how I feel in it, see how it looks when I walk in front of a mirror or if it hangs strange. I actually, especially with this body of work, make a lot of little changes at this stage. So, it’s a process of allowing enough time for each piece.

So, then are you kind of working in between pieces, going back and forth or do you tend to focus on one piece until you get it right and then move on to the next?

Rarely do I work on one piece and then go to the next and then the next. In my general process I have many pieces going on at once and it allows me to not get stressed out. Some pieces end up being something and some ideas don’t for the moment. It makes more sense to allow that time that I was talking about in order to feel the work intuitively and to keep looking at it at different moments, different moods, different times of day, different light…

The title of this show is “Circulation”. Would you in general talk a little bit about Circulation and what that means to your work?

I like the idea of this continuous motion. That was one of the things I responded to when choosing the title, this cycle and idea that one thing leads to the next in an ongoing, continuous flow. So that’s how I viewed it as I was working. It was this process of looking at myself throughout different time periods of my life and addressing that. As people, we interact with the world and we can’t avoid flow. One thing leads to the next, leads to the next and our experiences lead us to where we are today. So circulation is a reference to the years, the story, the information, the knowledge and interests that went into the work. Also, I like the idea of thinking of circulation in another context, as how things get spread. Like newspaper circulation, how something moves out and about in the world, how it circulates. It feels like that’s where I’m at in my life. I’m putting myself out there in the public and getting the work out there. I really do feel like these necklaces, earrings and brooches are lyrical collages that speak to all the different fragments of me, but at the same time can move away from me and mean something to someone else.

Right. I like that double meaning. The circulation that deals with the making of the work as well as the physical circulation of the work itself once out in the world. Especially because it is unique to a discipline like jewelry. You could make a 2-d work or a sculpture for that matter but it would be on the wall or somewhere more permanent. But jewelry is so interesting in that it’s constantly moving through the day to day.

Yeah, which is lovely. It moves from mood to mood, space to space and person to person. Jewelry does go to museums or certain places and just stay put but not in general.

As artists we tend to scrutinize what we make all the time. If I were to look back at something that I didn’t consider part of my artwork I might not care so much but when I put things in this category of, “This is my art,” then it becomes so much more magnified. I was thinking of myself going through your process and I wondered, would I want to look at pieces or parts or things that I made 15 or 20 years ago?

It’s interesting too, because some of it dates back to when I was young or even through high school when I wasn’t thinking of it in the context of, “I’m making art.” It was just that pure love of using my hands, getting time to myself and quietly doing all these intricate and repetitive things. Then on top of that, having something as a result of that time spent. I love that. I always like having nothing in my hands and then creating something, and realizing, “Wow, now I have a necklace to wear out tonight or a hat because its cold,” and having that skill is something I really am thankful for.

However, there is a time when it did start to become a harder process. For me the critical moment when it shifted was after college, when I was trying to make money and make this my thing. As far as the pieces I made during this time period, I probably took them apart so much that they are in disguise from what they originally were. They weren’t so interesting to me the way they were.

You said at the gallery talk that your household was a little chaotic and you looked forward to these times when you could steal away by yourself. In terms of this group of work I like picturing what your household was like and I was wondering if you could just give me a little bit of a background on your upbringing?

Sure. I certainly got along with my family. It’s just that I had 3 older brothers and a younger sister. We didn’t have a set routine every single day. It was just sort of, whatever needed to happen, happened. So there was a lot of flexibility in some ways and a lot of unknowns. I found myself wanting quiet time. So I would get away and do my own thing for a while. And that’s what it felt like—getting away from a constant motion.

Was that part of your parents philosophy, that flexibility?

I think that my family was willing to avoid making things super static, which I really appreciate. There were certainly rules and some formality about things. But there was rarely a time where it was just, “This is what it is and no matter what the scenario comes up, I’m not going to consider anything else.” That allowed for a lot to happen. It’s interesting because the house was always changing. We were fixing the house, furniture would move around and in a sense there was a lot of creation.

I was wondering if you had one piece out of the group that especially spoke to you and if you could elaborate.

It’s not so easy to just pick one but I really like the way this piece came out. I feel like it can be worn in different ways. I wore it with a t-shirt and thought it looked great and it felt really good. It also can be dressy and formal. A lot of this exhibition is versatile like that. In this necklace, there is a beautiful interaction between the old and the new. From afar you see it’s line quality and then up-close you see these different elements of texture and color. I like the color interaction in the piece. It’s subdued but still feels very expressive yet very simple.

click here to view more images

Shibumi Baby Update

2010-10-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

For all of you that have been asking about my son Ando & Ahna's girls Charlotte & Ruby...Here they are!

Ando: 8 months

Charlotte & Ruby: 4 months

Eric Powell 'Quinquagenary'

2010-09-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

Quinquagenary a tribute to fifty years, Sculpture, September 11 - October 31, 2010

click here to view sculptures in the show

PROP 8 RULED UNCONSTITUTIONAL!

2010-08-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!

photo credit Vivienne Scholl, San Francisco; Castro Theater

Julia Turner - Notation

2010-06-03T15:14:00.000-07:00

above brooch: Notation, red enamel, wood, paint, steel

Our current show "Notation" JULIA TURNER features a new body of work focusing on Julia's jewelry and new wall pieces. The work is reminiscent of architectural landscapes and blurred images that reminded me of cityscapes, textiles, and scattered flying birds. The work is black and white accented with a vibrant red; enamel, wood, glass, and red sapphires. Displayed on a cool gray table top in a considered fashion, the show invites you to view from a quiet place and ponder the imagery.

The media is industrial white paint on patinated steel scratched away to form markings and later leaving abstract narrative impressions. As always, Julia's detailing of the work is thoughtful and her execution precise. Each piece is artfully thought out and even the backside including her clasps and attachments, is dealt with with the same kind of precision and care for detail.

above: Julia Turner informal talk at Shibumi opening / ring: Red Stack Ring, wood, paint, steel

In 2004 Julia and I were exhibiting together at Collect which was hosted by the Victoria and Albert Museum. While walking around the Museum she shared her idea to scratch through white opaque surfaces. Now in this body of work the idea is fully realized. When Julia spoke at Shibumi I mentioned this and she laughed when recalling the unfolding of this process.

Her process in making the pieces involves starting with a large sheet of steel, and scraping shapes and lines according to a feeling connected to the motion, rather than directly composing imagery. She then later scans the sheet for smaller sections which she extracts specifically for their impact when they are viewed within a small boundary. As a jeweler myself it is interesting that she has come up with these techniques to undermine her temptation to scrutinize and perfect everything.

Julia Turner center with wall piece details

Julia Turner's work integrates a painterly quality which is one of the reasons why her pieces are so sought after by collectors. The fact she is transitioning into larger works that forgo the function of wearability seems like a natural progression. Her wall pieces, also on painted on steel, debut at this show.

above brooch: Lookout, steel, wood, 18k gold

Along with the steel painted work Julia shows the wooden stacks with heavy sanding marks. Simple forms become dimensional landscapes and intentional compositional piles. The show is up through June 27th and we continue to show and represent her work year long. To see more of the work along with Julia's wall pieces please visit Shibumi Gallery or inquire for additional show images.

An additional article on the Art Jewelry Forum blog by the artist can be seen here.

above necklace: Black Pile, wood, paint, steel, gray string

above brooch: Satellite,red sapphires, wood, paint, steel, silver

above brooch: Ikat, wood, paint, steel, 18k gold

above pendant: Border, wood, paint, steel

above brooch: Red Fields, wood, paint, steel

above brooch: You Are Here, wood, paint, steel

above brooch: Stripes, wood, paint, steel

above brooch: Break, wood, paint, steel

above necklace: Red Light Strand, faceted glass, wood, paint, steel

above earrings: Storm, paint, steel, 18ky gold / Julia Turner partial show detail

Back at Shibumi + Few more photo of my boy

2010-05-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

Today I am back part time at Shibumi. I feel like I have landed on the moon. My gallery/business is here waiting for me but I feel like a different person now that I have gone through the birthing process and have my boy. I figure sooner or later life will find it's new rhythm...

One good reason to come back; we have a beautiful show up of Julia Turner's work which I will do a post on soon. She created an artful new body of work.

For today just a few more photo of my Ando Mika, now 2 months. The middle photo is his 'blast off pose'.

He's such a flirt!

My Tiger-Fish

2010-03-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

A few more photos of my little Tiger-Fish. He is growing so fast! I promise I'll make jewelry again but he is just so beautiful (I think, I mean I think I could aesthetically judge this but who knows maybe all parents are bias) Here are a few more photos of him at twelve days old.

I'm enjoying motherhood and am so grateful to have the gallery and my work too.It's nice to take a break from my work but I'll be back! He is a sweet natured boy and I feel lucky to be his mom.

My Latest Work of Art...

2010-03-15T18:05:00.000-07:00

Announcing...

Ando Mika Higashi Powell
03 . 03 . 10

6 lbs 11 ounces
20"
5:49pm

Year of the Tiger / Pisces

Ando / pronounced (ahn-doe)/Japanese for Peaceful & Stable, also means East.

安(an) = peace, stable
東(dou, higashi) = east

Mika / pronounced (mee-ka)/Japanese for New Moon.
(We were married on Winter Solstice '06, Wedding Party on Summer Solstice '07, Doctor called us to tell us we were pregnant after 6.5 years on Summer Solstice '09!)

We are well & adjusting into our new life. I had a super short (intense) natural birthing under 4 hours! Our baby was almost born on the way to the hospital! We are in bliss, he is an amazing boy!

With love to all of you for all your support & good wishes!

April, Eric & Ando

p.s. Today I'm 40 weeks pregnant!

2010-03-01T17:43:00.000-08:00

Photo: Leon Borensztein / Taken at the beginning of 37 weeks (9 months) / Talya Baharal Brooch

Shibumi Gallery will continue to be open it's regular hours. Ahna Adair, my gallery manager will be running the ship along with my amazing goldsmith Chris Neff.

See you all when there is me + 1!

Tina Rath / Jewlery Show

2010-02-27T19:00:00.000-08:00

Our current show, Tina Rath / Jewelry has been extended through March 28, 2010.

Tina is currently working on a large scale project Wanderlux: phase I, which premiered at the Institute for Contemporary Art in Portland, Maine in November 2009. And the grand finale: Waderlux: phase II will show with Sienna Gallery at SOFA NY in 2010. It will contain jewelry objects amongst the installation both in view and found in secret drawers.

above: Wanderlux I, Institute for Contemporary Art in Portland, Maine

As long as I've known Tina her projects always come from a personal space. Her work challenges and expands the context of jewelry. This is reflected in the individual pieces as well as the unique contexts she creates to view them in. In Wanderlux she explores finding home, being strongly drawn to nature and being present in the moment. Tina has returned to California through a teaching sabbatical from Maine College of Art, to work on this intensive project. Her love for the outdoors and the beautiful forms of lichen, mushrooms and vastness of nature have enriched her life and play a central role in her current work.

Shibumi Gallery is currently is featuring her her most wearable and elegant jewelry which is directly influenced by Wanderlux. Similar in feel from the larger scale project, the collector can buy a single brooch or wear them in multiples.

above: Floral Scatterpins, oxidized silver

The forms are made of all natural materials; wood, ivory, fur, antler, gold, quartz and congac diamonds.

above: African Blackwood Earrings with Gold Dots, Mushroom Cluster Scatterpins

above: Antler/Mineral brooches, mule deer antler, sterling silver, mink

above: Antler Rossette Brooches with Cognac Diamond and Antler Rosette Brooch with 18ky Dots, Long Fringe Earrings, 18kyg

You can see a brief write up of the show on the Art Jewelry Forum website or better yet come see more of the work in person at Shibumi.

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-02T21:52:00.001-08:00

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season to you & your family!

Please join us for our Holiday Soiree December 5th, 5-8pm
more info

Shibumi Gallery Featured in American Craft Dec / Jan Issue

2009-11-24T22:47:00.001-08:00

April Higashi in Shibumi Gallery / photo credit ~ Jaymie Scott

Look for us in the current issue of American Craft Magazine in the Zoom section. I'll post a link if they put it online. As of yet you'll just have to go crack a magazine, the old fashion way. It's a nice two page spread.

American Craft Conference- Creating A New Craft Culture: Part I

2009-10-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

I just returned from Minneapolis from the ACC Conference. I went to take in new ideas, and get a current pulse of the Craft field in hopes this would continue my vision for Shibumi and my studio work. At 41, I am five months pregnant. This trip seemed timely to keep the connection and vision for the future before I get sucked into motherhood. Which by the way I am excited for but I intend to continue my commitment to Craft and that is an evolving process.

The conference was well worth the investment. In general it reminded me that all of us in the "Craft" field are part of a bigger picture. For most of us we have come to this field because we love making. Making is part of our process. And then in that we try to connect the dots on making a living. We have not ended up in this field for the easy money, but for the love of the work, the lifestyle and the connection we have to our creative process, to our hands informing our minds. The commitment is to sharing our process and continually inviting people in to be reminded they can do what they love. I have gathered these reflections from some of the speakers at the conference and will share the most notable insights which I find help in going deeper in my life and my work. I can see that these and many more of the speakers will continue to have a ripple effect in my practice.

Richard Sennett was the key not speaker and his book The Craftsman is currently available. Sennett speaks about the Craftsman being misunderstood, when they are seen only from the perspective of making. His perspective is that manual activities are highly intelligent. Looking at the modern capitalist work society he points out that many business are set up to reward their workers for RESULTS and are not oriented by incentive or quality. People are not valued as much as RESULTS are valued.

I see his point that the creative process, the asking of why? or following a pathway that may not prove to lead you to results is often not encouraged. And in this environment the great ideas, mistakes and creative thinking have no room to grow. And isn't this happening in many avenues of life? Are we forgetting to wander down a pathway because our to do lists have gotten so long? As Sennett says, "What is wrong with a society that does not allow rewards to people who have a craft mentality and does not reward quality?" He in fact is a believer that the hand informs the head and I do agree. It was good to be reminded of this simple daily practice that most studio artists engage in many times each day.

I've just finished the prologue in The Craftsman and I have to say I think Sennett has an amazing perspective on the benefits of material culture and he expresses it so eloquently. It almost seems obvious after you read his words. He is working on a three-part book series: The Craftsman; explores craftmanship, the skill to make things well, Warriors and Priests addresses the crafting of rituals that manage aggression and zeal, and The Foreigner explores the skill required in making and inhabiting sustainable environments.

Elissa Author shared many examples of the 60's studio artist movement, many of whom were artists from California and the West. What struck a cord with me is that the artists of that era were committed to their artwork and studio practices from the perspective of lifestyle.

George Nakashima states his commitment to INTEGRATE~ LIFE + WORK. I can really relate. I myself have often not had much recreational time as my life is in many respects my work. I even have a musician friend and we joke that we don't know how to recreate. It is because the time and energy we put towards our work entails many of these elements and is very time consuming. Many of my friends and the artists I show in Shibumi who actually make their living at their art, also have these similar lifestyles. The integration of Life and Work I believe continues sometimes not as much as a choice but as a necessity. That is to devote the time to make new work and make a living in the process. I am happy to be reminded that it is a choice and this is what I have chosen for my lifestyle.

The author also sighted Marguerite Wildenhain, a French Bauhaus potter who later moved to the United States. She started the Pond Farm School in Guernville, California, where the students threw pots for 8-9 hours a day and could not take anything with them. They were being shown the relationship to the process and not to hold onto the results.

M.C. Richards was also sighted, who wrote Centering. I am very familiar with this book, my husband Eric Powell, who's mother is a potter keeps this book by his bedside as a staple. Richards speaks about centering and wholeness. Her belief is that self realization can be found through the craft process.

Author's talk was a reminder that as artists and dealers working to support the craft field, it is a choice and one of the reasons I have chosen this is career is the lifestyle that supports it. I would say all of the artists whom I represent breathe, eat, live and integrate their work into their art and life. I see it is laced into every aspect of their lives. Sometimes I forget this because it takes all my energy some days to keep making a living but as I am reminded it is a choice of life and I am re-empowered to once again connect with this.

I am sharing what to me are a few important reflections from the ACC Conference. You can get more detailed info by Harriette Estelle Berman's blog and Emiko-o reware's blog.

Stay tuned for Part II which will address the younger and older "Craft" generations and how they conflict and complement and are hopefully starting to integrate to make A New Craft Culture...

San Francisco Chronicle Article: West Berkeley- Fourth Street

2009-10-08T17:29:00.000-07:00

I got written up in the Sunday SF Chronicle last week. A story on a few West Berkeley Artisans. There is a little surprise announcement at the end of my article. Read it and see.

Spontanious Showing of Jacobi Caruso

2009-09-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

Jacobi Caruso, age 3, has his first public showing, in the windows of Shibumi.This small and dedicated artist dedicates at least 4 hours a day to his line drawing and is now working on spelling. His drawings specialize in animals, dinosaurs, masks and anything that gets more
abstract is a sea monster.

He is the son of Ocelot's designer Angelina DeAntonis and Oliver Raisner both talented in the arts field. Oliver mentioned today that they didn't make it to the park because Jacobi (aka as Cobi) wanted to stay in to draw.

Anyone watching him draw reminds them what it's like to be free and passionate!

Ocelot Clothing & Gabriel Russo Event

2009-09-19T19:38:00.001-07:00

Our weekend show featured Ocelot Clothing's Fall Collection, designer Angelina De Antonis (below-right) along with Menswear Designer, Gabrielle Russo (below-left) premiering his new collection at Shibumi. What an honor to feature such talented designers. The two of them complimented each other so well.

We currently still have a great selection of Ocelot and will have Gabriel's work back for the holidays. Fyi- Ocelot has a special $150 rack with some great pieces on it!

The event was very successful and Trumer Beer donated a nice selection of local beer.
I love our clients: stylish, tasteful, supportive, artful.

Angelina tying a wrap skirt on client & friend Tara Rech. The new collage tops are truly wearable paintings.

Below the silk shrug with client Teresa's own jeans and Ocelot top. She made me her Ocelot sponsor to keep her from buying no more than 1 piece, but she walked away with 5...what was she thinking asking me? Well they all looked fabulous on her, what could I say?

Since the show Gabriel has attracted the attention of Fred Segal's in LA.

Gabriel's wool gabardine shirts have Japanese pocket hand-detailing. The pockets are made from vintage suiting and sometimes antique Japanese textiles. The detailing is subtle, perfect for the man that wants a little style but doesn't want to stand out too much. Or for a gift from the woman that wants to get her man something tasteful and special he'll actually wear.

Perfect for Fall.......handsome felted wool coats with hand stitching & button hole detailing.

Gabriel had a sample vest that he is working on to unveil next.....stay tuned or please inquire about seeing more of his work.

Upcoming Events // On the horizon

2009-07-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

August 2009

SF ACC SHOW / April Higashi Jewelery

Fort Mason, San Francisco
Booth #610
August 14, 15, 16 2009

__________

September 2009
Ocelot Clothing Fall Weekend Show
also featuring Menswear / Textile Designer Gabriel Russo
Weekend of 9/12th & 13th.

__________

October 2009

SHIBUSA \ shi-’bu-sa \ n. this aesthetic includes an openness to nature
& an appreciation of the irregularities of form.
Opening Date 10.03.09
Cathy Liu / Paintings

Karen Gilbert / Jewelry

Taylor Vogland Dreling / Sculptures

__________

November 2009
Tina Rath / Jewelry
Introduction & artist reception
Saturday 11.07.09
__________

May 2010
Julia Turner / Jewelry
Dates to be announced
__________

Play!

2009-05-17T13:08:00.000-07:00

Dyan Garza, Play, Steel Wire, 12.5" x 14" x 12", 2009

We are just gathering images for a major image update on our artist section on the website. I just had to post one of my favorite sculptures in the gallery by Dyan Garza. Dyan has shown her sculptures at Shibumi over the last few years. They are truly a favorite here at Shibumi for us and our clients. They have such grace and in this case such a playful nature. The shadows they cast are sublime.

Dyan Garza’s is a sculptor and painter. The connections of people, time and space are the exploration of her work. We have more of her wire sculptures in the gallery and are expecting a few new pieces soon.

Wear It Everyday!

2009-04-20T18:30:00.001-07:00

Sometimes my clients inspire me...

Here is the Fedrica Bracelet. 18k Yellow Gold with three Raw Diamonds.

This bracelet is great to wear on its' own or stack it with a nice thick cuff or other thin bracelets. I made this for my client, she inspired me with her style. Once I made it and put it on, I had to make one for myself. I wear it everyday....yes everyday, so easy to wear and elegant on the eye.

I also make them in a white gold or silver which has a cool look. These days I'm a yellow gold girl. But I don't hesitate to wear mixed metals. It is about wearing an aesthetic not a single metal color.

Something About Love: A Three Part Affair

2009-02-22T14:22:00.000-08:00

Tina Rath /Black Beauty: Brooch 7 , Pink ivory wood, fox, 18k gold

Our current show, Something About Love, opened one week before the infamous Valentine's Day. We hope that the show created a more complex and inclusive experience than the holiday we are all subjected to every year on the 14th of February. Because love is for everyone and about everyone the show was our attempt at shaking off the old cliche in order to examine and celebrate the multitude of emotions, relationships, and experiences that fall under that one simple word. If you havn't had a chance to come by, we will be holding a closing reception Sunday March 22 from 12-5. A big thanks to the folks at B R estaurant and Bar in Oakland's Historic District for providing the delicious nibbles at the opening reception.
The show views the concept of love through 3 lenses.

1. The photographic lense of Bay Area artist, Ace Lehner. Ace an accomplished photographer and is currently an MFA Candidate at The California College of the Arts.

Ace Lehner. With an eye for the slightly strange and a background in painting and illustration Lehner uses photography as a tool to re-draw the way we see the world around us. Lehner has produced intervention work and exhibitions internationally including London, New York and Montreal. Currently Lehner is pursuing projects that deal with issues of the power of vision in relation to love and desire, the reconfiguration of family and the emotional impact of deportation.

2. In conjunction with these photographic images, exhibition organizer Anna Adair considers her own practice as a jeweler and thus her role as a maker of objects that symbolize love. Inviting other Jeweler’s to do the same, the show features work by Curtis Arima, Sarah Davis, Nick Dong, Karen Gilbert, April Higashi, Maya Kini, Chris Neff, Jaydan Moore and Tina Rath.

Curtis Armia / Untitled A gardener negotiates the definition of a weed. One can pull out plants prematurely without knowing what they have to offer, or neglect branches allowing plants to become promiscuously overgrown. We often disregard ideas before they grow, plucking them out, rather than transplanting them into otherpaths in our unconscious, later to emerge when they are mature. Dandelions are full of potential to prosper. This piece is dedicated to my dearest Joe as a memento of our many years to come, hope for prosperous times and our love for gardening.Sterling silver, 18k gold
April Higashi / Untitled When I was young, just old enough to start being interested in boys, I heard a poetic line in a story. "As a couple sleeps, the threads of their lives intertwine." I always have thought about that image. As I have matured, I see these threads as both metaphorical and energetic, enhanced and strengthenedwith historic experiences. Like love they are delicate, beautiful and complex, 20k gold and threadKaren Gilbert / Link Joined together, two things have more depth, beauty and complexity than one alone, Sterling Silver, pyrex, 18k gold

Anna Adair / End of The Line When thinking about love recently, my brother came to mind. The last man to carry our family name, Jeffryes, falling in
love for him holds heavy significance within the traditional patriarchal structure. In making these cufflinks, a pair for each Jeffryes man that has lived within my lifetime, I reflect on ideas of family tradition and societal norms. Each pair pays homage to these men who have meant a great deal to me, while illustrating the restrictions inherent in such a system and thus the importance of allowing for more open ideas about love, family, and relationships., Sterling Silver and enamel.
Maya Kini /Graphite Wedding Bands The graphite rings began as an investigation of the two-sided nature of carbon. I was intrigued by the genetics of the material and how a slight variation could produce a much harder relative - the diamond. Diamonds are so often used to signify durability because they cannot be cut by anything other than themselves. I wanted to pay homage to diamond’s lesser relative by making rings of graphite that literally mark a process of commitment rather than function as lasting jewelry pieces.

3. The third and final portion of the show will display a collection of personal belongings, gathered from Bay Area residents. The objects included will be the result of a request issued prior to the show to “borrow” items that have been given in the name of love.He began to sew me a love letter but as you can see,
never finished. Needless to say, it didn’t last..........Hillary Kantmann

Sandra Enterline gave me these souvenir pendants for my 85th birthday. They contain 85 burnt match heads and one for good luck. I still remember when Sandra gave them to me, she said, “June that’s a lot of cake!”.....June Schwarcz

Patrick H. Adair 1922-2000 WW2 Service Medals
Auld Pat, my father’s father
A modest man who would rather
Keep these medals in a drawer
And never boast about the war
But seeing as he’s not here today
I thought I’d put them on display
Ross Adair

The Mix Tape At the end of our first date Ross gave me this mix tape that he had made for me. I listened to each song hoping to hear clues that would reveal his feelings for me. Ross is a mix tape master....Anna Adair

My grandfather Kenneth Kameo Higashimachi gave this engagement ring to Hisa Claire Morimoto, circa 1926. They were the first generation to break the arranged marriage tradition in their families. Both were Nisei generation, born in Hawaii, him in 1901 and her 1902. My grandfather’s family was from Farmer Class and my grandmother’s was from Samurai Class.....April Higashi

Show concept Anna Adair
Co-curated by Anna Adair & April Higashi

Join us for our Closing Reception:

Sunday March 22 from 12-5pm

Quiet....before the storm

2009-01-31T17:33:00.000-08:00

I am savoring a few moments of quiet in the gallery.

We are about to start the installation of our new show SOMETHING ABOUT LOVE: A THREE PART AFFAIR. Check back next week for our new show at Shibumi. The opening is Friday, February 6th 6-10pm. Check the gallery events page for more info.

YES!

2009-01-20T13:49:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Shibumi is 3.

2009-01-01T18:05:00.001-08:00

A New Year and a year wiser. Shibumi Gallery turns 3.

To thank you for your patronage, during the month of January please
take 25% off any one item at Shibumi.

(offer excludes custom jewelry work & some sculpture)

Wishing you a 2009 filled with subtle beauty!

Happy Owlidays!

2008-12-18T19:08:00.000-08:00

© 2007 Jim Fenton

I love owls. Such magical, fine creatures. This owl is brought to you by goldenrod.org a wonderful foundation who's goal is to conserve and protect coastal habitat. I walk every morning down at the Berkeley Marina, and it's owl season for the ground owls.

I am not so traditional for the holidays, so I thought I'd wish you a HAPPY OWLIDAYS! May you have much magic in your holidays....

Shibumi Gallery is open extra hours before Christmas:
Saturday & Sunday 11-6pm
Monday & Tuesday 11-5pm

Karen Gilbert: Trunk Show

2008-12-09T19:08:00.000-08:00

Karen Gilbert is one of my favorite working jewelers. By working I simply mean, she supports herself (& actually her family) on selling her jewelry as art. Her work always continues to evolve with great integrity and thoughtfulness.

Last weekend Karen Gilbert brought new work to Shibumi for a trunk show. She is doing some new pieces with mica. When worn they catch the light and refract with the movement of the wearer. They are beautiful. Her combination of materials are earthy, playful and sophisticated. She never seizes to amaze me with her new directions and explorations.

Karen's jewelery is shown at Shibumi Gallery year round. And for the holidays, we have some great prices on her earrings.

" I see my work from two sides. one is the exploration of materials; the other is the content of my ideas. the functional forms in nature and science, put together, are those we find familiar. i see these most primal forms as road maps for everything we think and feel. the smallest can be a visual representation of the larger complexity. what is underneath the surface is what i choose to explore. i try to question ideas about where comfort and beauty are found. the objects i make are my expressions of a new narrative."--- Karen Gilbert

Christmas is coming....blink

2008-12-04T21:31:00.000-08:00

Can you believe we are coming to the end of 2008?

As my dear 90 year old friend says, "I just blink and a week goes by." Well don't let too much time go by to make something new. I try to follow my own advise.

My new Chrysanthemum Ring is hand engraved with 24k gold & three Congac Diamonds. I love exploring in new directions in my work. I wanted to translate some of my enamel patterns in different ways. This ring is so comfortable, it has a saddle shape and kind of hugs the finger. I can't wait to do more. The pattern reminds me of Japanese origami paper.

Thankgiving

2008-11-29T18:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! My husband & I just returned from the country after spending a wonderful thanksgiving with his family. I really loved this bug eaten leaf we found along the side of the road.

Speaking of holiday season......today started the Berkeley Artisan's Open Studios. We had a good day with a lot of traffic. People seem to be really interested in shopping locally or buying work that is made by an Artisan. I think this recession, if that is what we are having, has made people more thoughtful of their purchases.

Warm wishes for your holidays! We encourage quality not quantity!

Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show

2008-11-25T21:07:00.000-08:00

A week or so ago I returned from the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show. It is a very nice juried show and I am honored to be amongst such talented artists. The women's committee that run it are terrific and treat the artists so well!

Here is my traveling booth where Anna & I lived for a week. When I was little I had a Japanese doll in a lacquered case. The doll was so precious and lived in my room beside my bed. We modeled the cases off of this idea. Eric, my husband has made anything metal in my display. He is a metal sculptor so this is a favor. The show went very well & I am glad that the Philadelphia community is so supportive of the arts!

Anna Adair, who also works with me at the gallery came along for her first away show. The east coast weather was nice when we did get out. Very crisp & fall was in the air & on the ground!

Obama Euphoria

2008-11-09T09:38:00.000-08:00

I'm off to Philadelphia for the Museum Show, but before I go. I just had to post this beautiful moment with Barack Obama. Very shibumi.

Change...History...Obama

2008-11-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

I can't wait for the next four years.
My hope has been restored.

Thank you Obama,
as an artist
you inspire me!

But this election was bittersweet...
I believe in TRUE EQUALITY.

I am huge supporter of marriage for all.

I hope the day will come soon,
for my friends,
my clients
&
for all Americans.

I believe it is right. I believe it will happen.
CHANGE IS COMING.

O!

2008-10-19T21:45:00.000-07:00

o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

Oh. You need be passionate and dedicated to keep art in your life....the other thing I have just been passionate about is the hope that Barack Obama will be our next president! Imagine being inspired by our president, imagine wanting to be a better person because your leader is such a good role model. I was so honored to participate in an energizing fundraiser for Obama this weekend...it was a total grass roots event with so many people helping & showing up.

Shibumi Gallery & friends were part of Fashioning Change; a show + silent auction hosted by Rachel Neumann. A fundraiser for Obama's final two weeks of his campaign. Shibumi artists & other Bay Area jewelers donated work along with many talented fashion designers. Ocelot Clothing featured many of the Shibumi's jewelry artists in the fashion show.

Thank you contributors, artists, friends, clients, with the help of your talent and generosity, we raised over $20,000 for Obama and got over 400 people to come out, get energized about the election, donate, and have fun while doing it!

Now a few shots from the show featuring Ocelot Clothing as one of six talented fashion designers.

Enamel Jewelry by April Higashi

Carnelian Seed Pod Brooch by Karen Gilbert

Oxidized Silver O earrings & necklace by Biba Schutz

Silver Moth Earrings by Maya Kini

Check out the hope on her cheek

& the hope in the crowd.

Ocelot's designer Angelina DeAntonis (center) with friends

Angelina after the runway show.

Rebecca Sako and me getting ready for the silent auction

Shibumi & friends silent auction bidding...$$$
Thank you Anna for your help.
No more rum punch for me, notice the water.

Tara Rech, friend & volunteer has the winning bid for the THIS ONE scarf
+
other side of the scarf says THAT WON!

O make it so on November 4th!

Maya Kini : jewlery + objects

2008-10-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend's show at Shibumi Gallery introduced Maya Kini's studio work. We have already been selling her beautiful Mokume rings as commitment & wedding bands. Her woodgrain patterns in Mokume fit with our aesthetic & commitment to subtle beauty.

Along with her most recent body of work, her daughter Delilah June, born this year, she continues her jewelry + object making. Maya's work is poetic and shares the organic quality that I love with the thoughtfulness of observing everyday objects and nature. She curiously has explored the household drain. Drain Brooch below, silver & sugar fired enamel.

"Passing through. The drain is a non-object - a device to filter, refine, strain, collect. Life seems to reside in the plumbing that connects the drains. This sense that material is always moving is what motivates me to make and unmake. I search for a delicate prestige that I can confer upon a material through making, before these objects become matter again. "

Other elements (Spear Studs below in 18k gold) are cast directly from nature paired with her embedded Raw Diamond Rings from her Botanix Series.

Maya's pieces from her Moth Series, 18k earrings below, are as graceful as she is. Also I love the simple shapes of her sugar fire enamel Bird Brooches. Maya made these while in residence in Mendocino watching the ravens fly by, each one is hand-cut out of steel and attaches with a strong magnet.

And a couple causal shots from the day at Shibumi...

A quiet moment with Maya's husband Shamus, baby Delilah and their friend's daughter.

Behind the doors...Shibumi Studio & Gallery

2008-10-15T11:17:00.001-07:00

I've decided to transition this blog to include my studio, my gallery, my process, current works, + recent events. So here is a peek into the gallery...

Peonies!

2008-06-18T23:04:00.001-07:00

These have got to be my favorite flower! I look forward to them every spring/summer.
Yes even though they are pink. Go figure?

Shibumi Studio & Gallery: review by Cat Seto

2008-06-08T16:03:00.000-07:00

Speaking of cats....Cat Seto does a beautiful & very hip shopping blog, to my surprise I found this nice collage she did of my work, the gallery, and some of my ring artists. Nice work Cat on your great graphic eye. Well of course you are a wonderful illustrator and she does a charming stationary collection. So nice when things are done well and with consideration! I like her work and she has a sweet shop on Polk Street in San Francisco.

This collage shows some of my commitment rings with natural diamonds crystals and rose cut diamonds with matrix patterns in 22k gold & 18k Palladium White Gold. Also featured; my cats, me, and Shibumi Gallery.

Thanks Cat!

yuko - baby!

2008-05-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

Here is my other perrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrfect chat........miss yuko, my first, the original beauty.

She needs Jaguar! They are our babies & bonus; live sculptures.
If you ever think about getting a wedge-head Siamese, I recommend it.
But they are not like ordinary cats. They are very interactive and chatty!
They think that you understand every meow. They'll have you trained in no time. *wink.
My Eric even, get this, warms up their food. He says they like it better?
OK, well I let her sleep under the covers...so I'm no saint either.

The things we do for our beautiful animals we love?

Prrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Beauty...

2008-05-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

This is my little Jaguar.
He always finds the sunny spot!
We rescued him from a cat shelter.
He had a rough life before.
But he is doing prrrrrfect!
What a beauty & a clown.
He matches our other Wedgehead Siamese, Yuko,
who I will post photos of some other time.
I mean how much beauty can one take in a day?

A bit cliche, but sunsets still do the trick...

2008-04-02T19:36:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, a weekday, I escaped! A trip to the sea, Bodega Bay, with my friend Cecile Moochnek. We went to see the sky, smell the air & walk in the sand. Why am I doing a blog about subtle beauty when nature is leading the way? Remember to take that day drive outside of your world! It was our pre-birthday celebrations. Why yes, I am born in April and I've always had a thing with skies!

The mind in its natural state can be compared to the sky. Covered by layers of cloud which hide its true nature....Kalu Rinpoche

K U R O S A W A ' S : Red Beard

2008-03-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

I just saw Kurosawa's film from 1965 Red Beard. Truly amazing, what incredible lighting, compositions and drama. Each set is like a moving painting you want to keep looking at. Mifune who plays Red Beard is incredible and the camera just loves his intensity. It's a long, slow film so make sure you have some time to soak up all the beauty, time and space.

"I had something special in mind when I made this film ... I wanted to make something that my audience would want to see, something so magnificent that people would just have to see it."

A little pet? No, it's a sculpture of beauty.

2008-03-26T21:58:00.001-07:00

Maybe because we are just rolling off Easter weekend I was drawn to this jet sculpture, I'm not saying it looks like a rabbit but it does have that little pet feeling. The sculptor is Alma Allen and I just love his work. His lovely partner Nancy is great to contact if you need one! I did....and would love some more little objects placed around my home making me smile at their beauty as I come upon 'em.

Happy Easter, meet my beautiful egg!

2008-03-23T21:52:00.000-07:00

This beautiful tea-stained egg inspired me to start a blog on "subtle beauty." Things that are just too beautiful not to share.

Yesterday I went to get some cherry blossoms for the gallery and my flower lady, Jean had made these for Easter. I just was crazy for it, so she gave it to me for a gift. The recipe is as follows: hard boil egg half way done (about 5 minutes), remove & roll around so it cracks, return to pot and add your favorite black tea and anise, continue to boil until hard boiled....cool & eat! Now, I haven't actually eaten one but they sure are lovely to look at. I sure hope she doesn't ask me how it tasted. Then I'll have to tell her I just took it home for a photo & spent the day looking at it.