Artist Statement:
In the natural world, things are not always as they seem. To an untrained eye, the tentacles extending from a sea anemone or the branches surrounding a flower may simply appear as beautify forms, but in actuality these seemingly benign physical characteristics are highly effective means of protection.
With my Protection Series I seek to emulate the beautiful forms that self-defense can at times assume in nature. Each of these neck pieces utilizes elements extending away from the body that are visually compelling, but also create a barrier between the wearer and their environment. The works are fabricated from sterling and fine silver, generating a radiant glow that attracts the viewer, even as the protruding forms keep them at a distance.
Ultimately I hope to create wearable adornments that strike a balance between concepts of protection and formal elements mimicking nature.

-Jennifer Surine