Kristie Miller McMahon

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A resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Kristie lives in Clarks Summit with her husband, three children, and two Labrador retrievers.  Her artistic journey began in earnest in high school with all intentions of someday becoming an “artist”.  But, as life would have it, Kristie detoured from this path to receive a B.S. in Management from Bloomsburg University.  After several years as a telecommunications software designer, Kristie once again went back to her true love of all things art.  After several years studying drawing and sculpture, Kristie discovered the wonder and beauty of wearable art.  Since 1997, she has pursued metalsmithing and glass studies with numerous national artists and organizations, including Lynne Merchant, Kate Fowle-Melany, and Corning Glass.

Creative Drive:
“The elegance and beauty of nature have a huge influence in my creative process, as seen through the very organic colors and lines in my work.   Every summer, I spend time on a rugged Lake Huron island to observe the wonders of the land returning with renewed inspiration and ideas.”

Key emotion represented in your work:
“My jewelry pieces become a very personal wearable art form for many women.  A necklace can further reflect the inner person by mirroring the colors and forms of the woman’s body.  Many feel intuitively drawn to a certain piece.  It’s fascinating!”

Thoughts on your process:
“My techniques and style are simple ones.  Because I sculpt thicker gauged wire into strong connections and shapes, I do not need soldering. I choose glass beads that reflect the sentient colors of nature.  Every bead is made over a torch, then kiln annealed for durability.  Although I enjoy creating my glass beads, my jewelry often incorporates the inspiring glass of nationally recognized artists.”

Personal relationship with your work:
“I am continually fascinated with the beautiful patterns and shapes that are created by manipulating a variety of colored glass and sterling silver wire.  What results for me is a piece of wearable art that is infused with emotion and energy.”

Thoughts on sharing art:
“When we share our art, the world becomes a different place.  The art expresses beauty and culture, history and continuity.  It’s deeply personal, yet vital to be a part of a shared culture.”

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