LORI AKS ROSENBERG, PsyD
As an undergrad I studied Developmental Psychology and participated in research on Attachment theory. I took these interests to Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology to complete a PsyD in Clinical Psychology. Following my internship at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital I worked in an inpatient psychiatric setting as a treatment Team Leader. When I started a family, I transitioned to private practice in Springfield NJ where I’ve practiced for the past 36 years. I also supervise Rutgers University doctoral students on their clinical work.
As an empty nester I looked for an artistic outlet and began learning Metalsmith Arts at the Visual Arts Center of NJ and was immediately hooked on the complexity of creating handmade jewelry. As I became more proficient, I began to explore ways to bring my worlds together. Developing themed collections was a way to express my feelings and observations as a psychologist in artistic expression. My art jewelry collection is an effort to visually show the importance of secure attachments for our mental health. It brings me full circle to the interests I’ve always had and my observations as a therapist. I’ve made a commitment to donate 10% of sales from my art jewelry to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) to further their community efforts to destigmatize mental illness.
Crinkled Spiral Moss Agate Earrings
(Hand Fabricated Oxidized Sterling Silver and Moss Agate Gemstones, 3” x 1” x .2” per earring)
My artistic voice draws from a career as a practicing psychologist where I find beauty in relational bonds. My art jewelry designs use curving forms, texture, negative space, mixed metals, gemstones and prongs or bezels to convey emotion, human form and connection. I strive to create one of a kind wearable sculptures that fit well into everyday life but also might start a conversation.
I’ve chosen the Crinkled Spiral Moss Agate Earrings for submission this year in keeping with the theme Flourishing and Flow. They were created as part of a new collection called Crinkled Spiral. The Crinkled Spiral motif is a symbol for personal growth and discovery. I keep coming back to the crinkled texture in my pieces and I think it adds depth and dimension visually and shows that the process of self discovery is full of twists and turns.
This pair of hand fabricated earrings have a domed post with crinkled wire texture that sits comfortably on the earlobe. I made tab settings to capture the shimmering green and gold Moss Agate gemstones that dangle gently below the posts. To me the pieces represent the uncertain path that leads to a flourishing environment requiring a steady and patient hand to hold what is important.
I have studied Metal Arts at the NJ Visual Arts Center for the past decade and during the pandemic started a home studio art jewelry practice. I have shown work at the Visual Arts Center Member Shows, have won awards at the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair for my metalsmith entries and I’ve participated in craft fairs and shows in NJ, Chicago and NYC. I have served on the Members Committee at the Visual Arts Center. My jewelry was included in an article about Fordite and Recycled materials in JCK Magazine and featured in an article about Open Forms in Belle Armoire Jewelry Magazine. I am currently working on a committee to bring an exhibit to NYCJewelry Week in November 2024 called Linked: Held Together by the Stay Gold Collective where we explore the sentimentality and significance of charms..