Julia Mancarella : capstone

Abstract

Creating with metal is a tangible reminder that everything is in a state of perpetual transformation. I feel called to respond to this state of flux in my artwork and jewelry. The plasticity of metal is reminiscent of the transformations that occur within me and around me every moment. From the macro to the micro—everything is always changing from one moment to the next. Exploring these changes through cultural and emotional connections to materials both inspires and drives my process. By infusing my own experiences, memories, pleasure and pain within my work, I create pieces that convey a universal message of personal emotional response. Emotions transcend time, geographic barriers and communication. Life is inseparable from emotion. Using materials that speak to my emotions—gemstones and precious metals—I am able to elicit a completely unique response in my audience. This can be seen in my work—especially in “Morphosis”. The symbolism of my imagery and materials is deeply intertwined. Labradorite is often used to facilitate transformation and protect the wearer during times of turbulence. The Luna Moth is a symbol seen in cultures around the world as a good omen, and as a symbol that represents spiritual transformation. The Labradorite stones are specifically placed to come into direct contact with the body. The stones aren’t in plain sight, so the wearer shares a special and private connection with the piece. This hidden secret is intended to empower and assist the wearer in whatever personal transformation they are currently experiencing. The cathartic process of making helps me process the current moment and release negative attachments, and my jewelry is designed to encourage such positive transformations in others. Making this work allows me to live in a way that creates positive ripples in the world around me and within myself. Each piece leaves me a changed person—I learn as much about myself as I do about material, process, and form. The ability of metal to embody both transformation and change is truly unlike any other medium, and the more I continue to explore its limits and my own, the more I want to push them both.