CELEBRATE THE BODY 2023
- May 12, 2023 - June 10, 2023
- Exhibition
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- Artwork
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- Artists
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Joyce Watts Coolidge x
Bio
I am a treasure hunter, from a long line of treasure hunters. I have wonderful memories of my parents pointing out small treasures in nature: the way the moss grew, or flower petals settled into their pattern, and the smell of being in the forest. As a parent, I tried to give my own children this gift and to keep that tradition of appreciation alive.
Alaska is the home of my heart. I live on a mountain that is walking distance to the Chugach State Park. I love my view (I can see Denali from my deck!), and that I can walk out my door and take my dogs on walks into the wilderness. There are some days when I get to live “my perfect day.” I get up, go to Pilates and have coffee with friends. When I get home, I take my dogs out to walk, snowshoe or to pick wild berries. (My dogs are patient if I stop to take photos of ice crystals or lichens.) When I get home, I put an audiobook on, tie my apron on and paint. Life is good and I am grateful.
Artist Statement
Inspiration to create comes from the oddest sources at times. I had never made jewelry, but when I saw a previously flooded river area of branches with debris and metal shavings twisted together, I was inspired. I saw it as controlled chaos. I went home and purchased stones and wire and created my first jewelry. I still love to create those original abstract shapes, but my creations have evolved to include designs that are more symmetrical. I want my jewelry to retain its handmade look and frequently use silver that had not been polished to a high shine. Whether I am making encaustic art or jewelry, I am attracted to textures and designs that reflect both refinement and natural ruggedness.