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etsy interviews jewelry

Tribal Infusions





This week I chatted with local jewelry designer Ashley Beach about her creations and how New Orleans influences her as an artist. 

1. How long have you been making jewelry?
I went to school at the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2003. I went there for four years but decided to study metalsmithing in 2004. I’ve been hammering happily away ever since then!

2. Your pieces have a tribal element to them. How do you go about creating each piece?
I have a bit of a love affair with the exotic and organic elements in our lives. Seeds, flower stamen, and vines all find there way into my work. These things naturally lend themselves to the ritual of adornment, as the organic world embodies the presence of the goddess. I also try to accentuate the quality of line and space that’s already present in a particular location on the body.
Wrapped Flute Earrings With Chinese Carnelian Wrapped flute earrings with Chinese carnelian
3. How does New Orleans shape you as an artist?
Living in New Orleans is a never ending flood (pardon the expression) of inspiration. Our city is such a fascinating blend of cultures. There is this ancient tribal energy that permeates the regal and elegant world. Everywhere you look, the past dances wildly with the present.
Ornate details peek at you from every corner, like the intricate patterns of wrought iron, or the gnarled roots and branches of trees hundreds of years old. I love the graceful bells of brass instruments. They sometimes show up in my work. The music is sensuous and heartfelt, and pulses through the air like a heartbeat.
The sheer grace and joy of dancing has been a great influence on much of my work. I have taken to using a delicate snake chain in a few of my designs. These swing so fluidly and mimic the movements of dancers.
Infinity Bracelet Infinity bracelet

4. Where can we purchase your jewelry?
I have my work at the RHINO contemporary crafts gallery (RHINO stands for “right here in new orleans”). It’s located in the third floor of Canal Place. Their number is 504-523-7945. I also do custom orders and all of my work can be made in gold.
silver spiral earrings Silver spiral earrings
5. Define southern style.
Things move at a slower pace in the South. I think that this gives the people who live here a tendency to notice and fully appreciate the exquisite details and the sumptuous little goodies in life. There is no one defining visual aspect of southern style. Our uniqueness lies in how we approach and experience life.

You can purchase Ashy Beaches’ designs on Etsy as well.

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