JAB Fine Art + Design

About Me:

I am a multidisciplinary artist creating wearable, decorative and functional art for people, homes and public realms. I come from a diverse background centered in the arts and have been mastering fabrication techniques for nearly 20 years. While I began my career as a photographer in the United States Navy, I am known for my multimedia cut paper works and zero waste approach to material use.

I believe that the best work comes from moments when thoughtfulness and skillful making intersect so I pursue both in equal measure. I reside in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with my husband, son, cats and bunny. I am represented by the Boxheart Gallery and have exhibited in the southwestern PA region, nationally, and internationally. My wall art pieces are featured in the Monmade x CDCP Art Print Collection. My jewelry can be found nationally in brick and mortar stores such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Art museum shop.

About my Jewelry:

These wearable art pieces came about as part of the laser cut wall art work I’m currently making for use in public spaces. I use acrylic because it’s light weight and incredibly durable. It also plays with light and comes in a fantastic variety of colors. I get full sheets up to 48″x 36″ and use a laser cutter at a local maker space to cut out my designs. Once the piece is made I use the remaining acrylic from the outside of the cut to make lights, bookends, shelves and a variety of other products.

The little cut out shapes from the inside of the wall art piece go on to make the work in this shop. Every single one (I call them “gemmies”) is unique. I hand select each shape to create the sets. To make the finished work I take a photo of the set and draw an outline of it in illustrator to create a vector file for the laser cutter. I use that to cut out a custom backing from other remnants. The “gemmies” are then secured to that to give them support. This method allows me to create with zero waste and make wearable artwork where no two are alike!