Something New!

One of  a kind and Limited Edition ‘Eco-Friendly’ Jewelry.

STR_N_SLV-BLK_MM_0004My Jewelry follows the “up-cycling” movement which aims to re-evaluate the worth of waste by reinventing and reclaiming discarded materials in new and unexpected ways giving it a ‘Second Life’ by transforming it’s beauty into ‘Something New’.

All of My Jewelry and accessories are entirely hand-made by ‘manipulating’ used and disposed materials. The reused materials give the jewelry and accessories a strong identity with unique characteristics effectively making each piece a distinct and unique work of art. My process and my inspiration are material-focused. Using non organic discarded materials and reworking them to create unexpectedly organic shapes and patterns. I aim to create Jewelry and Accessories that force you to look at the ordinary in a new in an extraordinary way. I strive to make jewelry that is distinctive and surprising…..jewelry that is contemporary and makes a creative and thoughtful statement.

WRA_N_BLU-WHI_MM_0012The work came to life through a common deep rooted passion to working towards sustainable development. In our over-consuming society, already struggling to solve the problems of tomorrow, eco-design offers a new path towards more environmentally friendly products, by ‘up-cycling’ or ‘repurposing’ discarded materials into useful and viable Works of Art.

“For me the material cost or nature of jewelry is not nearly as important as the presence and feeling of an object that has been transformed from one material, having one purpose into something entirely different.”

The way of the Creative works through change and transformation, so that each thing receives its true nature and destiny and comes into permanent accord with the Great Harmony: this is what furthers and what perseveres.  -Alexander Pope 

All images © SanchezArias.com

16 replies
  1. Mark Lyndersay
    Mark Lyndersay says:

    Well, if there’s one word I would use to describe the work it would be “important.” There’s also striking, riveting and dynamic, those work too.

    I think the work crosses three remarkable boundaries, linking wearable, attractive jewelry with environmental consciousness and handmade art. At their intersection is something quite remarkable and worthy of serious attention, I think.

    I sat there watching your work on the screen, seeing something that’s evolved from your sensibilities and your life with Judy into a work that has world ready consciousness and maturity. Congratulations on finally sharing this with the world.

    • Sonya
      Sonya says:

      Thank You Mark….your comment means so much to me….I think Judy would like a lot of these.
      After all, it was my mother Judy who first showed me the beauty and abundance in nature from a twisted Bois Cano leaf on the forest floor in Trinidad to dried seaweed and drift wood on the beaches in Tobago….and though my work is different from hers….I see a lot of her sensibilities in my recycled art.

  2. Tiffany Pittman
    Tiffany Pittman says:

    Sonya, your work is absolutely beautiful!! It’s great that you’ve found a way to turn items that would be considered junk into works of art. You’re decreasing the carbon footprint while giving people unique fashion accessories. Kudos to you!

    • Sonya
      Sonya says:

      Thanks for visiting my blog Tiffany….and thank you for noticing the most important thing about it….the transformation and the possibilities that it creates!

  3. Tommy Vohs
    Tommy Vohs says:

    I think you are a creative genius, Sonya. I remember seeing you wearing your handmade jewelry and being floored by it; original and provocative styling by an original and provocative artist. So happy to see your website and blog come to life and I’m wishing you every success in the future. Folks, Sonya is THE REAL DEAL. much respect my friend! Tommy

  4. Liz Jones
    Liz Jones says:

    Sonya,
    As always, you have dazzled me with your creativity, consciousness, and keen ability to touch the heart of what is unique, beautiful and eye catching.
    Your work reflects your soul and your passion. I know with confidence this will be the beginning of a line that will take-off bigger than your wildest dreams. If there is anything I can offer to assist, a brochure, a recommendation, or send up a prayer, let me know. It is yours.

    My friend, you are a continued sense of inspiration for me and others, and I feel blessed to call you friend.

    God bless!

    • Sonya
      Sonya says:

      Liz….Thank You so much for your wonderful words…..I am truly touched….and thrilled that you like what you see. It is just the beginning for me there are so many possibilities and a never-ending supply of materials for me to transform. I would absolutely be open to any advice from you. It was not an accident that we met 12+ years ago……I am so grateful to have you as a friend.

  5. Ignacio Dinchong
    Ignacio Dinchong says:

    Wow Sonya, I’m simply blown away by the creativity and imagination that explodes in every piece of work I’m seeing! The transformation of seemingly useless materials unto something so gorgeous and yet very meaningful is absolutely mindblowing.

  6. Sonya
    Sonya says:

    Ignacio….thank you so much! You totally get it! There is beauty, potential and usefulness in all things!
    I’m hoping that more designers will use all manner of plastics, and discarded materials….and recycle them in their work. The transformative possibilities are endless. Hopefully I’ll be able to do some larger pieces and installations in the future….possibly for some of the companies that create all the wasted materials.

  7. Dalton Narine
    Dalton Narine says:

    Well, well. Judy and Minsh’s influence, for sure. If not, then it’s all you and all of you. But the apple saying goes without saying. Know what I’m sayin’? just sayin’.

    And, of course, shades of Tapestry, though you might have had a hand in that great mas band, too. And, if that’s not so, you’d have been a perfect fit.

    Whatever the inspiration, or none at all, it’s the aspiration that brings accolades. And a whole lot of them to you, Sister.

    Henceforth, I shall never ever doubt the machinations of your bountiful creativity. Just create and I’ll ogle and wonder. Lots of oooohs and awes from this end.

  8. Heidi Alleng
    Heidi Alleng says:

    Sonya…you are simply awesome. I remember sitting with you and thinking the same thing when you showed me your manipulated Polaroids and again for your exhibition so many years ago. I am continually amazed that we may look at the same things and yet you see so much more. To find such beauty in everyday things is indeed a blessing

    • Sonya
      Sonya says:

      Oh Heidi….thank you so much for your wonderful comment! And I’m so thrilled to hear that you remembered my SX-70 manipulated Polaroids….they were for my exhibition on ’96….feels like a lifetime ago ; ) It is indeed a blessing to be aware of the beauty and potential of all things, and the possibilities that a different point of view can create….and in this day and age…for me…it has become a necessity.

  9. Kata Kiss
    Kata Kiss says:

    Dear Sonya, I’ve been looking at and browsing your website for about an hour now … and I am totally amazed by everything I’ve seen, all those gorgeous pieces are a feast for the eye, especially for me who loves creative jewelry :)) I think I will definitely place an order soon, and I will be honoured to wear one of those beautiful creations. Just need more time to pick one coz there is too much choice :)))

  10. Sonya
    Sonya says:

    Kata….thank you so much for taking the time to visit my site. I’m so glad you like what you see. I remember you noticing the ring I was wearing when we met at the LAMAF show in Santa Monica…and I remember that you were surprised when I told you what it was made from. I love when fellow artists get me and understand my work. I am such a big fan of you and your work and it makes me happy to know that you would wear one of my pieces ; )

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