ABOUT THE WORK

Concepts of jewelry are shifting to permit a variety of materials once unseen in jewelry. Traditional precious metals like gold, platinum and silver will remain forever prominent but alternative materials are gaining favor, too. Rubber, paper, plastic, found objects and wood are just a few examples. These have now acquired value for their texture, beauty, surface, humor and sometimes, just for their novelty.  Some contemporary art jewelry will find places in museums but rarely the drawers and jewelry boxes of actual wearers. Other work will be embraced for its creativity and the sheer joy of it for the wearer, and all others who see it. Stephen Kris’ mink rings will be worn with delight by women for years to come.

“….I simply feel the need to express myself with a much larger palette of materials. The work may embrace pure metal designs, a single vivid gemstone or a solitary pearl combined with a bold texture derived from materials such as rubber, mink or stingray. It is along this path that my voice is best heard. With this, my creations have found their way onto customers who ‘dare to express their individuality.’ A few of the boldest followers have been Sarah Jessica Parker, Stephen Tyler from Aerosmith and Bon Jovi.

A note about Galu-cha-cha:

Gala-cha-cha, a kind of sting-ray skin, has been used ornamentally since the eighth century when the Japanese used it on breastplates, sword handles and sheaths. In the 1920’s it gained popularity among designers of avant-garde furniture.