Artist's Statement

MY PASSION
In my work there is an overarching theme of elegant line, simple geometry, and a
sophisticated use of color. I take my inspiration from my materials and this creates
an eclectic body of work. I prefer to follow tangents, to discover new problems to
solve, to play with materials and techniques rather than to create variations of the
same piece over and over again. Each piece of jewelry is unique unless noted as a
"limited edition." I do not create hundreds of pieces of any design because that is
too limiting to my imagination. I have more design ideas than time to execute them
so I keep my passion strong by exercising my creativity.

I cannot wait to get to my studio every morning to begin the process of transforming
sheets of metal and loose gemstones into wearable art. I am thrilled that my art is
walking around in this world, framing the faces and adorning the hands of those
who value artistic vision and the skill it takes to make an idea into a physical object.

MY PROCESS
I generally start with a gemstone and build a design around the stone. A pattern in
a stone will often suggest to me the frame in which to set the stone or a
gemstone's color will demand that a certain metal or patina be used as a contrast.
Most of the stones are one-of-a-kind, making the piece of jewelry unique. Some
design ideas are explored in multiple pieces where certain elements may be similar
but a different gemstone will be used or a different patina applied to the metal.

The gemstones I use in my work are cut by lapidary artists. I like to support other
artists by purchasing their work to incorporate into mine. I also use natural colored
gems and beads as much as possible, avoiding the cheaper dyed or treated
versions. Whether it is the soft luster of a pearl or the hard edged brilliance of a cut
gem, stones are at the core of my designs.

If you want a peek into my studio, check out the S tudio page. To see how I make a
pendant, check out the P rocess page.

MY PERSON
I am married and have two wonderful children who are grown and successful in their
chosen careers (film editor and wildlife conservationist). My educational background
includes a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from San Francisco State University, a
Master's degree in Museum Administration from John F. Kennedy University, and
instruction in jewelry fabrication from several master goldsmiths at the Revere
Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Fransisco. I enjoyed a professional career as a
college and museum administrator at the University of California Berkeley before
retiring in 2005 to pursue my second career as a goldsmith.

MY WISH FOR YOU
I hope that you will enjoy collecting and wearing my contemporary studio art
jewelry. What is now contemporary will become an heirloom for your family. Time
does not corrupt the value and beauty of precious metals and gemstones.

Cynthia Clearwater

Member:
Society of North American Goldsmiths
Metal Arts Guild, San Francisco Bay Area
American Craft Council
Orchid - Ganoksin Project