Blue Quail Design



Blue Quail Design

About The Artist

Claire Hasemeier • Elsberry, MO
Jewelry

Natural materials, color, and the natural environment influence my work. Cotton threads are knotted using micro-macrame and cavandoli techniques. Metalsmithing techniques are used interchangeably with embroidery techniques creating depth and texture to my pieces. There is a randomness and spontaneity of what happens with the metal patinas or the colors that emerge from the layers of enamels that are both contrasted and highlighted by the precision of the knotting and the color of the threads. In nature, this juxtaposition of randomness and precision exists in harmony. The combination of the organic, spontaneous results of the metal with the precision and accuracy of the knotting creates unique items of jewelry.



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Q&A with the Artist

Tell us how your work is made.

The core of each piece is the cavandoli or tapestry knot. I use cotton threads. Depending on the size of the thread there are between 270 and 540 knots per square inch. A piece can begin with a focal that has been torched, patinaed, or enameled. The color of the thread used either highlights or contrasts with the colors that have emerged from the focal. Sometimes the the knotting becomes the backdrop or canvas for textile dyes, applique, and embroidery. The goal is a unique organic piece of jewelry.


What makes you passionate about the medium you work with?

I am passionate about the color and texture. Knotting is very time consuming. I continue to hone my skills and apply metalsmithing techniques when working with fibers and textiles and then apply sewing and embroidery techniques to metals. There are so many avenues to explore.

What is something unique about you or your practice?

My work draws people in. They look closer and are surprised to realize what they assumed were tiny beads are actually tiny knots.