Lichtenstein's Engagement Rings

Perhaps the most potent symbol of imminent marital bliss, the engagement ring is a frequent subject in  Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective.  Personal favorites included these black-and-white oil on canvas paintings, part of a series Lichtenstein produced between 1961 and 1962. 

Taken out of context and avoiding any hint of branding, the abstracted Engagement Ring opens a seemingly endless range of associations and interpretations.

On exhibit at the Art Institute Chicago through September 3, 2012 ~ check it out.  

Custom Art Nouveau Inspired Pendant

When a recent client requested a custom pendant using a uniquely shaped pearl, I looked to the Art Nouveau era for inspiration. 

The Art Nouveau (literally “New Art”) era, lasting from 1890 to 1910, overlapped with the Edwardian and Victorian eras. Art Nouveau jewelers, greatly influenced by depictions of nature in Japanese art, looked to the natural world for inspiration. Featuring undulating curves & scrolls, their designs intended to emphasize the natural beauty of the gemstones and pearls in the jewelry. 

Natural freshwater pearl suspended from custom pendant cast in 18k green gold, set with peridots & pink tourmaline.