Our June Craft of Maine feature, “Noble Metals,” simply could not contain all of the talented jewelers in the state. But we did want to make room for just one more. Inspired by her time at the ocean’s edge, Jennifer Nielsen has been creating stunning, sea-inspired jewelry under the moniker Solstice Designs since 1997. Here are just a few of Nielsen’s pieces…
Jennifer Nielsen in her own words
On Following a Life-Long Love Affair: I’ve had a love of jewelry since I was a little girl, always searching through my mother’s jewelry box and trying things on. I’ve been intrigued by body ornamentation and how different societies and cultures decorate themselves, often using natural objects and materials around them. When I was in high school, I had an amazing art teacher, Mrs. Jane Wydra, who first exposed me to metalsmithing and soldering. I went on to study Jewelry and Metalsmithing at Maine College of Art with Tim McCreight.
On Respecting What Is Naturally Endowed: It is important to me that I use stones in their natural form. I take great care to choose stones that are an appropriate size and shape to be used in jewelry, so that they do not have to be altered. Because I incorporate these uniquely formed elements in my work, each piece is one-of-a-kind and can never be duplicated. While there is a continuity of the aesthetic, no two pieces are alike. I am constantly amazed that my work allows me to actively enjoy my surroundings on the coast of Maine.
On Finding the Zen in Each Piece: My designs have become more refined and the collection more cohesive as I develop as an artist. I try to design pieces that honor the materials and I strive for simplicity. The work has an earthy, almost Zen, feel to it. I’ve had clients tell me that my work has a calming influence on them. That’s a wonderful compliment that I didn’t hear in my early days.
On Refining Her Technique: So many metalsmithing techniques excite me, but I find that some of the most basic are the ones that are the most captivating. A simple bezel seems to be the perfect compliment to the natural, organic material that I can’t seem to resist.
For More Neilsen: solstice-designs.com, The Farnsworth Museum-Rockland, Handworks Gallery- Blue Hill, Island Artisans Gallery-Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor, Art and Soul Gallery, Ogunquit.
Photography by Scott Dorrance