Combining aspects of sculpture and jewelry Elaine Unzicker became interested in making wearable art while a graduate student at Illinois State University in 1986. Her work has since been published in newspapers and fashion magazines, she has taught jewelrymaking, and has exhibited in shows nationally.

Medieval chain mail and armor, and body adornment made from natural elements by primitive cultures, has influenced her designs. Elaine utilizes a technique of making molds of various parts of plants, leaves, bark or seed pods, and casting them into metal. She then adds these pieces to her shaped stainless steel or silver mesh necklaces, earrings or bracelets. Gemstone beads or pearls may be connected to the mesh. The designs flow over the body and adapt to each individual wearer. "It is as if the human body is my stage and the performance takes place when the jewelry is worn."

For more information please contact us at 805-646-1525.