Celebrate the Chesapeake NNK Style!
Join me! Show Your Passion for the BAY!
Carefree Elegance
I wrap my oysters with copper wire. I use copper wire with a permanent coat to create silver, bronze, and mixed metal settings. The oyster is finished with a clear coat to preserve the oyster's natural patina seen when the shell is removed from the water. These materials let me create a piece that is completely maintenance free.
Northern Neck (NNK)
I gather all of the shells and glass that I use. I collect oyster shells along the Potomac River at Washington's Birthplace in Westmoreland County. These shells are beginning to mineralize. They are found with a surprising array of colors depending on the age of the shell and where it has been. I get most of my white, newer shells at Windmill Point at the mouth of the Rappahannock River.
Grow it.
The Chesapeake Bay and her rivers are very important to me. I was raised in Reedville, a small fishing village at the very end of the Northern Neck. Because the area was dependent on seafood for its livelihood, I was raised to respect and love the water. Today I am a high school science teacher. Most summers I take a trip out on the Chesapeake Bay with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Several of these trips have focused on oysters and oyster restoration projects. My jewelry is an attempt to celebrate the beautiful oysters of the Chesapeake Bay.
Me and my Kayak
My journey into the art world began with a camera and a kayak. While living on the Great Wicomico River I paddled into the marsh and clicked pictures. Every time I went out I saw new things and learned how to use light and tide to create interesting compositions. Every outing was a learning experience. Most of my images are related to the Chesapeake Bay. I use vertical display screens to display my photography. The scenes from around the bay provide an excellent backdrop for selling oyster jewelry.
My beginning as an Oyster Stylist
I came to make oyster jewelry by accident. About two years ago I saw a video on YouTube that gave me an idea for wrapping an oyster shell so it could be worn as jewelry. After I made one and got a lot of compliments I made some more. I gave most away to my friends. Finally I decided to sell at the Reedville Independence Day Parade in 2018. I set up with one table and a canopy tent. I was one of 3 vendors in front of the church. I was amazed at my sales. I have been doing shows and farmer’s markets ever since. My inventory has grown and now I use two booth spaces for most shows.
Unique
The designs are totally my own. My work always surprises me, I start with a plan but that plan always changes as I work on each unique piece.