Nancy Marland (Jewelry)

Artist Statement

I create sterling silver jewelry for people who appreciate a unique, abstract, contemporary expression of water and ocean. I find inspiration from many sources in nature but particularly water — to explore, abstract, and distill the beauty inherent in its variety of organic, rhythmic shapes and forms. My quest is to create wearable art that resonates and reflects our greatest life source.

Water is the very foundation of life yet it brings us so much more. To me it brings beauty and sensuality, from its movement and flow, to the tactile feel of bubbles and waves that reflect and constantly alter its countless forms. Water is our essential connection to each other and to our environment. Making this physical connection opens the door to a spiritual one. It is my wish for anyone wearing my work to experience the calming, contemplative connectedness to water and nature that I do. 

Silver shines and reflects like water and oxidation adds contrast and depth. My designs are abstract, inviting you to interpret your own personal relationship to the work.

Process

I use 100% sterling silver and a particular type called Argentium™ (935) because it’s bright and tarnish resistant. Some of my pieces are filled with polymer clay and can be worn on either the silver or the polymer side. 

I either sculpt (using silver metal clay) or fabricate (using traditional metalsmith techniques) each original piece by hand. I then cast the pieces into silver. To the cast pieces I then add shape, texture, additional silver elements, and/or oxidation.