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Katherine Palochak
Wyoming jewelry designer, Katherine Palochak learned silversmithing from Native Americans while living in New Mexico. She combines these techniques with contemporary techniques and designs. Her work consists primarily of commissioned pieces and private sales, and she teaches workshops and classes in metalsmithing through community colleges and metalsmithing organizations. Artist's Statement Jewelry has a need to be alive and powerful, pulsing with its own energy, rather than a static adornment. I want people to exhilarate in the beauty itself and appreciate the impression of intensity. Any art is a reflection and an extension of ourselves, and we use it to project our innermost feelings to others. Jewelry, as a personal artistic adornment, is a means to communicate what lies below a façade we present to the world. In my work I start with stones, or an idea, that I want to highlight and bring to the forefront. Some quick sketches are done during this brainstorming session for me to draw upon as the design process begins. Often, however, the creation evolves into something more as I work with the metal and stones. New facets are revealed to me. Once a stone is set, it brings in new light or depth that wasn't evident in the sketches. Often I realize the metal texture has something really exciting happening with the combination of other factors. Subtle alterations are added to make the composition more complete. From these additions arise an essence that reaches out to seize the awareness.
My jewelry design uses many historical aspects of metalsmithing. Ancient techniques and symbolism evoke primal familiarity we all understand. For example, isolated by distance or time, a spiral design element was used by the Celts, Native Americans, Etruscan and Asian cultures. All humanity has these common threads of design, and people instinctively understand the symbolism. When you look at my jewelry and feel as if it mystically seems to mirror your emotions, it is due to the use of these ancient techniques and design elements. The use of color is an integral part of my designs. Color can evoke instant impressions of vibrancy or tranquility. We even use color to convey specific feelings: red for anger or passion, blue for stability and tranquility, white for purity, yellow for happiness and purple for royalty. Other colors are added, in addition to the colors of the metals and stones, by the use of patinas of iridescent colors. The shift between the play of colors is fascinating, and viewers get lost in the compelling qualities of color. Besides the visual appeal, tactile elements are incorporated in the design with textures, movement and curves that invite caresses. Jewelry is not only made to be worn and displayed; it serves as a touchstone that invites contemplation and meditation. Patterns are an acceptable distraction; smooth surfaces soothe, and rough textures inspire and energize us. Every piece made has something tactile that invites you to explore with your fingers. When viewers take my jewelry into their hands, I want them to use more than just their sight. They need to really feel what it is saying to them on a subconscious level. It is more than just a bauble held together with metal to attach to the body or clothing. It has its own spirit that is speaking to them, trying to tell them something about themselves. It is a culmination, not only of my skill and knowledge, but also as an expression of their own experience in their journey through life. Katherine
Palochak
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Clear
Creek Academy of Jewelry and Metal Arts Last Update: June 09, 2007
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