Elizabeth Farber Designs

Meet the Artist

• About This Artist

  I hand-weave precious metals and gemstones into one-of-a-kind, wearable art, using techniques from antiquity. I integrate hand-fabricated, classical goldwork into my weaving to add color, texture, balance and focus. The integration of these ancient processes with contemporary perspectives gives my work its unique aesthetic.

• Q&A With This Artist

  Q: Tell us how your work is made.

  A: I hand-weave precious metals and gemstones into one-of-a-kind, wearable art, using techniques from antiquity. I integrate hand-fabricated, classical goldwork into my weaving to add color, texture, balance and focus. The integration of these ancient processes with contemporary perspectives gives my work its unique aesthetic.

  Q: What makes you passionate about the medium and materials you work with?

  A: The colored gemstones, pearls, and gold, that I work with, transport me in time and distance to ancient and exotic places. I am passionate about the process of imagination, and skill in transforming these spectacular raw materials into my vision of the finished piece.

  Q: What is something unique or unexpected about you or your work?

  A: The unique elements I use in my weaving--gemstones and gold beads—allow me to create truly one-of-a-kind pieces. The alchemy of transforming hard gemstones and precious metals into soft, dynamic jewelry is a kind of magic that never ceases to amaze me.

  Q: Craft can bring with it the experience of delight and moments of wonder in the making process. How does wonder play a role in your practice?

  A: The only thing more wonder-filled than seeing gold and gemstones dancing and shimmering with each movement of the person wearing it, is creating the pieces that choreograph this visual ballet.

  Q: Is there a person in your life who inspires your work or who has helped shape your artistic practice?

  A: Art is an individual practice built of the history and inspirations that pre-date a piece. As a student to a practitioner, I have tried to channel those who have come long before me. As a new designer, I have had the good fortune of being mentored by one of the best in our field, Judith Kinghorn.