TESTIMONIAL"Also in the gallery is a suite of exquisite jewelry by Tricia Lachowiec - one of the strongest and most united groupings I've seen as a thesis project, and among the most beautiful work made by a student." RESOURCES |
TRICIA LACHOWIECMAKING JEWELRY SINCE 1993My curiosity and interest in metal began at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where I earned my BFA. Slowly, that interest turned to passion as I learned to hone my technical skills and effectively convey my ideas in the medium. As an assistant to Jean Huffenus of Jean Designs, I was introduced to French goldsmithing techniques and mentored by a true master. In the eight years I worked there I was constantly challenged to be the best technician and artist possible. Those who have worked with metal know that challenge is both frustrating and immensely fulfilling. A desire to expand my conceptual vision and apply the skills I had learned brought me to the graduate program at The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. There, I realized the core ideas ever present in my work: a deep awareness of nature and its inherent geometry, and a love of making, both as a pleasurable practice and as an expression of sincerity. I also developed an interest in utilizing botanical elements as metaphor for human emotions and relationships. Processes such as electroforming and enameling, coupled with traditional goldsmithing techniques, allow me to communicate these ideas in my work. Jewelry is an incredibly powerful artform, steeped in tradition, yet open for renewed interpretation. Its nature as object that requires the body to function allows it to speak both for the artist and the wearer. Wearing conveys a true love for the object and a sense of ownership for ideas it represents. Its intimate scale begs for close investigation and creates an opportunity for interaction between wearer and viewer, a truly unique quality. Jewelry as gift, memento, or object of devotion is especially appropriate for ideas of a deep personal nature. With this in mind, my hope is to create jewelry that is emotionally charged and passionately desired. |