Micro-Mosaic Jewelry Artist Courtney Lipson Cheers Patrons' Unique Stories with Collaborative 'To Life' Accessories Series

Plantagenet Family Crest Cuff in Micro-Seed Bead Inlay
by Courtney Denise Lipson

We all have defining moments in our lives that change who we are and how we feel about ourselves. Jewelry reflects who we are. According to Seattle-based micro-mosaic artist and jewelry designer Courtney Denise Lipson, jewelry is both shield and regalia for those who wear it.

Side View Plantagenet Family Crest Cuff
by Courtney Denise Lipson

"I have experienced times of complete transformation wearing jewelry, and at other times have felt it is a part of me, as much as my own skin," she insists. She also believes that jewelry as adornment is a reflection of personal memories and thoughts.

 

It is no surprise then that Courtney's work has the ability to spark memories--thoughts of a walk on the beach, a hike through the forest or the desert, or even a swim with innumerable sea creatures. Her mind is able to capture the textures, tones, sights and colors of journeys past in the smallest of spaces and in the most remarkable way. Every piece is a handmade, one-of-a-kind work of art. Her limitless imagination results in colorful earrings, rings, cuff bracelets, and extraordinary statement piece necklaces that have been the focal points of a number of beautiful, highly-artistic jewelry collections that celebrate the natural world. Her work is achieved by creating the shape of the design in sterling silver and/or gold, inlaying glass seed beads one at a time, and then enclosing the design in complementary colored grout.

 

Courtney is very intuitive, empathetic, and a natural storyteller. Continually trying to push the creative envelope and challenge herself technically, she offers something new and altogether unique...The 'To Life' Collection. With her signature silver and micro-mosaic hand grouted beadwork, Courtney can interpret your story-- the spirit of an individual, a special event or a specific moment in time--and transform it into a collaborative, extraordinary and stunning piece of jewelry. While many commissions involve total separation between patron and artist, Courtney will meet or correspond with you or your representative, every step of the way. From concept to drawing, she maintains her creative integrity to ensure a balance between a collector's vision and her expression.
 

I had the opportunity to work with her to create this piece that is a tribute to my English ancestry--Edward II--my 27th Great Uncle. As you can see, she superbly captured the essence of the Plantagenet Family crest by creating four quadrants and breaking up the elements--the three lions and the fleur de lis--to artistically hint at them. We decided to lessen the intensity of the original crest colors to make them more subdued and masculine. On one side is an eye (inspired by a photo of my own eye) that represents Edward and my ancestors' eyes watching over me. On the other end of the cuff, is white beadwork representing the ermine fur that would have been worn on royal regalia. A carnelian stone is the centerpiece that hints at the cuff's royal inspiration. When I first approached Courtney to make the piece, I asked if it was possible to have the crest be the background and then superimpose elements of Edward's face on top. I knew logistically, this might be difficult because of the small space. Regardless, she listened to what I wanted and I couldn't have imagined a better design for the jewelry.

 

As with all commissions from artists, it takes time for her to make the work. In the end, it's worth it, because the final product is something that you can't get anywhere else. In line with Courtney's philosophy that the piece is her artistic expression channeling another's personal experience, collectors can be assured that their story has never been told before in this fashion.

Micro-Mosaic Silver Cuffs by
Courtney Denise Lipson

 

For more information on commissioning a 'To Life' piece or purchasing any of her existing work, visit www.facebook.com/CourtneyDeniseLipson.