Earthshine Jewelry Artist Statement

The astronomical definition of Earth shine is sunlight reflected by the Earth that illuminates the dark side of the moon. This concept of Earth shining light on the darkness and the light representing Earth’s natural beauty is what I, Emily Payne, aspire to recreate through metal art. Gems have been used by humans for centuries not only for there physical beauty, but also for there protective, healing properties, and vibratory energies. By fabricating silver, copper, and brass around each stone I strive to complement these physical and metaphysical attributes. I may accentuate a particular stone by piercing an ancient symbol or a design of my own out of the surrounding precious and base metals. These designs are derived from my interpretation of patterns found in nature, drawing inspiration from contours of a mountain range on the horizon, the flow of a river, tree limbs against a blue sky, impressions of sea shells, the bark of a tree, or the veins of a leaf. By working with negative space the contrast of light and dark is achieved, as well as a translation of the patterns seen in my mind’s eye. Many times I incorporate reticulated silver, with its unpredictable textured pattern, into a piece of jewelry to complement a smooth polished silver surface. These complementary opposites, light and dark, smooth and rough, winter and summer, sun and moon, united as one sparks my creative expression. The yin-yang duality of nature and of our perceived reality is what I try to convey through my jewelry. My hope is that these unique works of art can be appreciated by others, allowing them to feel a connection to our natural world through a reflection of Earth’s light.