LORI AKS ROSENBERG, PsyD
My artistic voice draws from a career as a psychologist interested in attachment theory, object relations and transitional objects. I find beauty in the practice of psychotherapy where I explore interpersonal and family relationships to find patterns and trends. This experience spills into my thoughts when I design and create jewelry with metal arts techniques. I use texture, negative space, mixed metals, contrasting color and irregular forms. Prongs are an important element in my art jewelry imbued with the power of hands to hold something. Negative space shows the context and relational aspect of our attachments; here I can express the emotion and type of connection in the design. Textures show the weathered experience of the years and patterns I see. Shapes I gravitate to are irregular modernist forms with curves indicating a person is present. I do strive to make my jewelry design comfortable, beautiful and useful for the wearer and perhaps intended to start a conversation. Through this transforming effort I am ever the therapist, wanting to contribute something insightful.
River Pearl Ring
(Oxidized Sterling Silver Ring soldered to Silver Freeform “Bed” holds 35mm River Pearl with 14K Gold Fill Prongs. Ring Size 8, 35mm tall, 35mm wide, 5mm deep)
This piece of jewelry is part of my 2021 Visible Attachment Collection created during the Pandemic. This sculptural ring conveys the experience of isolation and the longing for contact and connection. The precious, shapely white pearl contrasts with the dark oxidized silver that holds it and I used gold to indicate the importance of holding someone through this dark time. When you wear it, the pearl lays across your hand and is a tribute to the precious souls who did not get to hold their family’s hand in the Pandemic crisis.