Susan Hoge

Susan Hoge

Susan Hoge

About The Artist

Susan Hoge • Rochester Hills, MI

Jewelry • WHOLESALE AVAILABLE • CUSTOM COMMISSIONS

I am a self-taught bead worker and an overly educated jeweler. I began my career by making and selling beaded jewellery at Grateful Dead concerts in the early 1980s. While in Ann Arbor, through my work with Patricia Woodbury at the original Bead Gallery, I had the opportunity to repair and recreate ancient and indigenous beaded pieces from around the world. I combine indigenous beadwork techniques with precious stones and high karat gold to create unique, wearable jewels.

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Q&A with the Artist

Tell us how your work is made.

I create my work using indigenous beadwork techniques used historically throughout the world. The metal beads in my work are antique French aluminum (c.1890-1910) and cut steel (c.1850). The aluminum beads are a neutral matte platinum color which accentuates the sparkling, colored gemstones. I weave the base of the piece out of the metal beads and then individually knot each gemstone bead to the base. This results in a durable clothlike structure. It is strong and drapes fluidly over the body.

What makes you passionate about the medium you work with?

I have always loved rock hunting and gemstones. I am excited by the search for materials. Finding something rare is always a delight! When working with the stones, I can almost taste the juicy colors of the beads. A gemstone is like no other material. There is a satisfying weight to the stone that feels good on the body. The subtle variations in color and the energy within the stone can only be created by nature.

What is something unique about you or your practice?

I began my career by making and selling beaded jewellery at Grateful Dead concerts in the early 1980s.