Artist Statement

In my former career as a research librarian, I communicated primarily using words

and text. At a jewelry workshop at Penland School of Crafts, however; I discovered that

engaging my imagination and communicating ideas via form and gesture was a very

moving experience. I was compelled to explore this new mode of expression more deeply.

Working with metal, semi-precious stones, and found objects, I create bold, playful

pieces of jewelry, inspired by abstract biomorphic forms and patterns found natural world

-- as well as flora, fauna, and landscapes from my imagination. I am also influenced by the

work of many mid-century modernist jewelry artists and abstract impressionists, as well as

the surrealism found in Luigi Serafini’s Codex Seraphinianus and the work of Dr. Seuss.

For me, jewelry is not about status or tradition; it is a means of self-expression, and

also a form of public art that can engage a broad audience. I attempt always to work with a

sense of awe and humor, to create work that is amusing and engaging. I believe that

curiosity about jewelry can start conversations about individual and shared meaning that

create connections between and enrich the lives of artists, wearers, and observers. I hope

my work can be a catalyst for human connection, curiosity, and play.

Artist Interview 

1) How long have you been making jewelry?

I had been making simple beaded jewelry for gifts for over twenty years, when I

had my first exposure to metalwork via a lost wax casting workshop at the

Penland School of Crafts in 2018. I had always loved metalwork jewelry, so

quickly decided to move in that direction, leaving my career of nearly thirty years

to go back to school fulltime.

2) Can you tell us about your background –how/where you learned metalsmithing?

In May of 2022, I received my A.A.S. in Jewelry from the Professional Crafts

Program at Haywood Community College in Clyde, NC.

3) Where do you draw inspiration from?

I create bold playful pieces of jewelry, inspired by abstract biomorphic forms and

patterns found in the natural world -- as well as flora, fauna, and landscapes from

my imagination. I am especially influenced by the forms I encounter when

snorkeling along coral reefs, irregular textures and patterns, and the work of

many mid-century modernist jewelry artists.

4) Can you tell us a bit about your work/processes/techniques you enjoy using?

I create ideas for some pieces via sketches, but also frequently just start by

playing around with materials. I especially enjoy lost wax casting, enamel work,

creating textures, and forging.

5) Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your work?

I am still very much in the process of figuring out what direction my work will take.

You can follow Shannon on Instagram at @shannonlucasjewelry as well as see her work in person at Ignite Jewelry Studios!