Jewelry is often symbolic of important times or events in our lives—trips we’ve taken, anniversaries, birthdays, ceremonies, people we’ve known and loved. It can hold memories of family, friends, people we met, and places we traveled.
In a new show at NKollectiv, 960 Santa Fe Drive, metalsmith artist Krista Lavonas will showcase a body of jewelry that encapsulates this notion by incorporating small metal containers into the design of her pendants, rings and other pieces. “Contained” will open with a public opening reception on Friday, Oct 18, 5:30-8:30 p.m. and will be on view through Nov. 10 during regular gallery hours as well as during the First Friday Art Walk, Oct 4, and Sundays on Santa Fe, Oct 27.
Known for her hand-fabricated sterling silver jewelry that highlights precious and semi-precious gemstones, Lavonas first began creating these small containers as a way to push her technique. She found the process of fitting the hinges, walls, latches and drawers to be an intriguing challenge, given her draw to the architecture of jewelry. She discovered that, “While building these small, enclosed containers, some of my own internal walls began to collapse,” She explains, “releasing old memories—joy, grief, sentiment, wonder. I decided to let my emotions lead and incorporate bits of these memories into this collection that I hope are relatable to others. The result is a group of pieces that were satisfying to complete—technically challenging as well as cathartic.”
Lavonas is based in Denver and comes to metalsmithing from a previous career in medicine. Having always been drawn to creating with her hands, she finds her flow in the process of jewelry fabrication. She loves working with different metals, particularly sterling silver, and incorporating unique gemstones and fossils into her pieces. Inspiration comes from the natural world as she strives to create pieces that evoke a sense of organic beauty. Whether she is crafting a delicate necklace or a bold statement ring, the hours spent creating each piece are a labor of love with the ultimate goal of bringing a sense of confidence and joy to the wearer.