Shirley Ephraim Talks Design

Feb 27, 2012 by Laura Greb

Posted under: blog

Shirley Ephraim Fine Earth Jewelry Patinated Wood & Hand Crafted Gold Silk Collar

Nigerian-born artist and fine jewelry designer Shirley Ephraim is making her New York debut during NY Armory Arts Week with a three-day exhibit entitled “LACE + ARMOR | An Exhibition of Sculptured Fine Earth Jewelry.”

Bordering the lines of wearable art, sculpture, and fine jewelry, LACE + ARMOR is inspired by the war regalia and defensive body coverings worn by the Japanese Samurai, Medieval Roman knights, and East-African Turkana warriors of ancient civilizations. The collection will feature meticulously hand-crafted neck, hand, and ear adornments, including lace-sleeved, corset “body-shield” necklaces reminiscent of ancient battle dress.

Committed to reinvigorating ancient hand-crafted techniques in designing fine jewelry for the modern woman who seeks a strong connection to the pieces she chooses to adorn herself with, Ephraim works exclusively in reclaimed precious gold, recycled 19th century sterling silver, and antiqued bronze.

The opening presentation and exhibit for LACE + ARMOR will take place in a private Manhattan gallery from March 9 – 11, 2012. For more information, visit www.shirleyephraim.com or email info@shirleyephraim.com to RSVP for the opening presentation.

WITH A RUNWAY PRESENTATION & THREE-DAY EXHIBIT MARCH 9-11, 2012

SHIRLEY EPHRAIM Fine Earth Jewelry is an intricately hand-crafted collection of fine jewelry made with sustainable, natural, and ethically sourced materials including precious gemstones, reclaimed precious gold, recycled 19th century sterling silver, antiqued yellow bronze, sustainably harvested patinated woods, and organic nacre.

With rare, luxurious, handmade silk yarns as the essential medium, Ephraim is inspired by the artistry of ancient hand-weaving and lace-making techniques learned from her mother and tribal artisans during her childhood. In addition to her heritage, Ephraim draws inspiration from nature, world travels, and ancient handicrafts.

Ephraim’s jewelry has had on-screen success in feature films such as the 2009 Oscar nominated film, “The Visitor”, and the independent film, “DARE”, starring Emmy Rossum. Select pieces from SHIRLEY EPHRAIM Fine Earth Jewelry were also featured in CHRISTIE’s 2010 and 2011 Green Auction, A Bid to Save the Earth. Most recently Ephraim designed a special capsule collection for Donna Karan, “SHIRLEY EPHRAIM for Donna Karan” which was featured in the Donna Karan Spring 2011 runway show and is sold in Donna Karan stores in the U.S. and UK.

“The strength of the jewelry is in it’s natural, bold colors, meticulous craftsmanship, unexpected lightness, and earthy, organic feeling. The lace, crochet, and weaving techniques evoke the artisan’s hand, while the simplicity of the designs keep the look elegant and sophisticated.”

Please contact: Vanessa Lee for more information info@shirleyephraim.com

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