EAST interview: Lisa Crowder's Art You Can Wear

Be prepared to be noticed when you wear a piece of Lisa Crowder’s jewelry – it is big, bold, beautiful, and earthy. Even the most delicate of her necklaces feels substantial. A professional jeweler since 2004, she makes rings, bracelets, earrings, and other unique adornments out of a variety of materials giving each piece an industrial, yet smooth and polished look. Working mainly with sterling silver, she uses oxidation and a matte finish to enhance the layers and details created through forming, hammering, riveting and soldering. She says, “Every aspect of the piece is taken into account from the smallest to the largest detail. Simple forms such as circles, ovals, triangles and squares repeat themselves within this body of work as they build upon each other and from each piece grows another. These forms may be simple, but they create a feel that is familiar yet unique and timeless.” This weekend at the East Austin Studio Tour you'll not only be able to find great art to put on your wall, but art you can wear!

Lisa’s work, along with work by her studio mates Ryan McKerley, Edmund Martinez, and Stephanie Nance can be seen at 2710 E. Cesar Chavez St.

How did you become a jewelry maker?

I studied Metals at The University of Texas and received a BFA in Studio Art in 1998.

What is the inspiration behind your creations?

The metal itself many times. My enamel work is very influenced by street art and everyday images.

What materials do you use?

I use sterling silver, gold, copper, enamel, wood and bone.