Artist Spotlight: Melissa Dudley Designs....................................................................................................................36

maybe forced is the better way of saying it—to create and launch my website, which I try to update weekly. I am doing indoor and outdoor studio appointments, depending on my clients’ individual comfort levels. I’ve also taken pieces for private showings on yachts moored in the Nantucket Boat Basin. Y&SG: I checked out your website, it’s really nice! Go into some detail on your “Creatures” designs - bejeweled feathers, turtles, etc Melissa: Living on Nantucket, I am surrounded by various creatures. The island is home to a wide variety of birds, turtles, deer, and other terrestrial animals, and of course the water that surrounds is teeming with fish. In many cultures animals are seen as messengers, coming into our lives to serve specific purposes at specific times. We’re all connected to one another— humans, animals, plants, all of us—and we all draw energy from one another. Being in nature and connected to that energy, I’m

frequently inspired by something I see—be it a feather, or a beetle we see in a field, or a starfish or shell on the beach—and I want to capture that inspiration and beauty in jewelry. The finished piece is a tangible reminder for me of our connection to nature and the messages that we can get from those animals. Y&SG: Also go into some detail on what inspires you to create Mandalas.

Melissa: I am fascinated by Mandalas, and I have read several books on them. They signify, among other things, a model of the structure of life; we are all connected both to each other and the world around us, and Mandalas illustrate that interrelationship. I strongly believe that they can be healing, and just looking at one can make one feel centered and balanced. I also believe that they have a calming effect for the maker, the wearer, and the viewer, and I really think that we could use some serenity in the world right now. Y&SG: Anything new on the horizon? I am always creating and always working on new ideas. Even the things I consider my mainstay items—things like sailor’s valentines—are always individualized and unique, as I use colors and shells in different ways each time. And I’m also constantly working on new items that are different from other things I make, but still retain the same timeless beauty that are the hallmarks of my designs.

Because I’m committed to updating my website, I’d suggest that people visit me at www.melissadudleydesigns.com and keep checking back, because I’ll be adding new things frequently.

You can meet Melissa at Sustainable Nantucket’s Farmers and Artisans market on Saturdays in season or make an appointment to visit her studio. Visit Melissa’s website www.Melissadudleydesigns.com