About the Artists: Melanie Updegraff and Sharon Jeter

We had individually been designing and making wearable art for a number of years when we met by chance in a bead store and studio in Rochester, NY. It was then that we began an exciting collaborative relationship. This collaboration has allowed us to utilize the unique skills that each one of us process to develop this distinctive collection of jewelry.

Though we are both mainly self-taught artists, we have also taken advantage of technically oriented workshops and classes taught by a variety of instructors. In order to grow and prosper, we continue to educate ourselves in the fine art of jewelry making through self-study as well as classes and workshops with experts in the field.

Each piece is fabricated from Sterling and Fine Silver as well as 14 and 18 KT Gold. Though we prefer to fabricate each one from start to finish, some components may be cast from the original fabrications in order to more quickly and easily complete a piece. Integrating beautifully cut unusual stones and beads into our designs further sets our jewelry apart and makes each creation unique. In this way we assure that everything we make is either one of a kind, or limited editions of no more than ten pieces. Respect for the elements of metal and stone and their source, the earth, is not only the impetuous and inspiration for our work but also a grounding element in the heady process of art. While jewelry making can be an arduous and complicated task that forces the artist to concentrate on minute detail, we simultaneously strive to make the work an integral part of our larger everyday existence. Accentuating the simple and positive aspects of nature, play, and spirituality make our pieces a delicate balance of intricate adornment and uncomplicated beauty.

It is our intent that the physical result of our artistic expression be integrated into the artistic lives and expression of those who wear our pieces. In this way, the piece and the wearer become one work of art.