ABOUT THE ARTIST

Hi, I’m AJ – a maker, a teacher, and a lifelong learner with a head full of fairy tales and hands that are almost always covered in polishing compound.

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I create things that sparkle, glow, and sometimes surprise me. I teach others how to do it, too – with joy, a sense of humor, and just enough nerdy rabbit holes to keep things interesting.

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Metal clay is my main medium – but I also work in enamel and traditional metalsmithing. There’s just something magical about turning raw material into something meaningful – something that holds a story, a spark, a little alchemy.

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I grew up in Virginia, raised on mythology, horror novels, art history, and the kind of music that makes you dance while you work. I’ve always loved taking things apart to see how they tick – stories, materials, processes, tools. That curiosity is still what fuels me: a need to understand and play and make something meaningful out of the weird and wonderful stuff life hands me.

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My jewelry is often inspired by transformation – both literal and metaphorical. I love how a piece of wearable art can become part of your story. A talisman. A memory keeper. A daily dose of “damn right, I made this.”

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These days, I split my time between making and teaching – offering workshops online and in-person, sharing techniques through detailed tutorials, and occasionally selling finished pieces when I can bear to let them go.

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I do my own photography, my own website, my own bookkeeping (meh), and I may or may not have four different to-do lists at any given moment. I’m a recovering perfectionist, a proud art nerd, and the kind of teacher who will absolutely cheer you on while also reminding you to trust the process – even when it’s messy.

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Whether you’re here to shop, learn, or just peek into my world, I’m glad you found me. This isn’t just a studio – it’s a place for creative hands and kindred spirits.

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Welcome in.

– AJ