I have just launched a new collection of rings for the holiday season! It has been a journey. I've been wanting to create a jewelry collection for years but the timing just never felt right.
I had been working on some tests this year for rings and pendants, but I had a lot of fear. As an artist working in installation and sculpture, I was afraid of how the jewelry would be perceived. I went into existential creator's dread, thinking things like "Will I ever be picked for an open call again if I make jewelry?"
And so the rings remained on the back burner until...
In November a big storm hit the Philippines. I knew I wanted to help out and luckily I had a batch of test rings in Manila . Thanks to these rings and my wonderful sales manager in Manila, we were able to raise funds that helped feed families affected by the typhoon, as well as purchase feminine products for women and children in vulnerable communities.
I took it as a sign from the universe.
The art of glass flame working was traditionally used as a method to create beads in the early Roman and Mesopotamian era. Every time I step up to the torch, I feel connected to this ancient alchemical art form. The process of melting the glass and shaping it is a magical experience that I have been mesmerized by for 11 years now.
I am hoping that with these rings I can share a bit of this magic with the world.
You can DM us at Barbae Glass on instagram if you would like a ring!
I also made a limited amount of holiday rings available in New York if you want it before Christmas.
Support for Barbae Glass goes to creating all the upcoming projects I have for next year. I will be posting a detailed glimpse into this process on my Patreon, with some small snippets on my IG stories soon.
And of course...
Thank you to all of you for being with me from the start!
Sending cheer,
Goldie