Allyson Hayes

I grew up on a river in the lush south born of a rich Afro/Native American heritage with strong family roots. I earned a degree in Studio Metalsmithing & Jewelry Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. In 2007 I relocated my home and studio to a ghost town in the desert hill country of southern New Mexico. I live in a historic over 130-year-old Adobe house with an Adobe Casita as my studio in Cuchillo New Mexico.

I handcraft bold, organic jewelry in Silver, Copper, Brass, and Gemstones using traditional metalsmithing techniques I begin with a technique I excel in, it could be hammer forging, forming, metal construction, alloying metals, reticulation, etching, soldering, or engraving for example. I then begin experimenting with techniques combined with visual inspirations of forms and patterns in nature and my intrigue with the alchemy of my craft.

I sense a natural conversation between the elements that are my materials and the elements I utilize to create my pieces. The result is work that articulates some of that conversation capturing glimpses of elemental reactions.

"My pieces are microcosms created with elements forged by the earth. When worn as objects of adornment they imbue the wearer with a unique statement of their personal aesthetic."