Statement
I am inspired by the myriad shapes and textures
found in nature, especially those I see in the Alaskan landscape: the swirls
of water and sand in the rivers and ocean, the geometry of the glaciated
mountains, the abstract tapestry of the tundra, and the gentle curves and
wisps of the Aurora Borealis. I incorporate these patterns into my jewelry
by adding textures and gold or silver appliques. Although most of my designs
are organic in style, I am also drawn to symmetrical, linear forms.
All of my work is hand fabricated* using sterling and fine silver,
Argentium™ sterling (tarnish-resistant sterling), high karat
gold, and both semi-precious and precious gemstones. Working with
sheet and wire, I use traditional metalsmithing techniques to form
each piece. I apply both traditional and contemporary methods to
create unusual, textured surfaces. Not only do I enjoy the challenge
of hand fabrication, but also feel immense satisfaction knowing that
each of my pieces is truly unique.
*some commercial chains and findings are used
Biography
Anchorage metalsmith artist Susan R. Serna began
designing and handcrafting jewelry in 1997. Although her artistic leanings
surfaced early in life, somewhere along the way she got diverted to a career
in health care management, earning an MBA in the process. The urge to design
and create remained strong, however. Continuing to explore different creative
avenues, she joined a Cleveland, Ohio, pottery co-op/studio in the early
1990s, creating functional stoneware pieces.
On a vacation trip to Alaska in 1990, Susan first
experienced the incredible beauty of the mountain landscape that inspired
her, six years later, to make the life-altering move from Cleveland to
the 'Last Frontier.' Enrolling in several metalsmithing courses at the
University of Alaska, Susan soon found that her true passion was managing
metals, not people. So, in 1998, she decided to leave behind the health
care world to start her business, Flor de la Luna, and devote all of her
energy to metalsmithing.
In 2007, Susan was the very grateful recipient of a Rasmuson Foundation
Individual Artist Project Award.
She has used the award money to purchase an electric
rolling mill and upgrade her studio's electrical power.
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