Jennifer Kashuck

I am influenced by the concept of reincarnation.  The beads I use come from a wide variety of sources.  Many of them are already made into jewelry.  I take things apart and give them a new life.  I like the idea that the materials I’m using are infused with a history and energy collected from previous configurations, surroundings and situations.  I like that I am continuing this life and creating positive change.  This is symbolic to me.  The journey I take through the making of a piece is also metaphorical to me.  When unexpected twists, turns and difficulties happen along the way, I strive to figure my way through difficulty with patience and listen to what the piece is telling me to do.  

Inspiration comes from many sources as well.  Sometimes it comes from something I’ve seen or experienced.  Sometimes I spend time with the beads and wait for them to tell me how to put them together.  Sometimes I don’t know where inspiration for a design comes from.  You will see a wide range of style in the body of my work.     

Decorating our bodies is a very personal and powerful means to self expression and I am happy to know that I may be helping someone to show the world who they are.