Knitted, Knotted, Twisted, & Twined – The Jewelry of Mary Lee Hu

                            

Rapunzel

Through the years some artists have had an impact on my jewelry making life.  Among those most prominent is Mary Lee Hu.  I discovered her amazing wire work when my husband and I were in Los Angeles.  We walked into a gallery and her jewelry was exhibited there.  The light reflective shimmering undulating surfaces were spellbinding.  I contacted her at the University of Washington and subsequently signed up for her textile technique and wire workshop in Arizona.  As far as my story goes, I was hooked.

Mary’s jewelry and sculptural pieces exhibited in the retrospective show at Bellevue Arts Museum are her history.  The beautifully crafted catalog/book of 100 exceptional chokers, earrings, broaches, and neck pieces chronicles her artistic growth as a student and subsequent master of her craft.

All renderings and notations are very insightful.  They demonstrate an artist working on a concept and then carrying it to fruition.  This is a wonderful way for the viewer to experience the creative process.  One example is the bracelet on the first page of the portfolio section.  Another example is the bracelet #37.  Each piece is flawless.  The fine silver and gold wirework, whether knitted, knotted, twisted, or twined, is an extension of self.

Mary always brought some of the beautiful twine structures, as featured in this book, to her workshop sessions.  Her students were able to personally visualize their movement, design, and intricate wire and fabricated construction first hand.  She also shared many of the chains and belts that she had collected during her many travels throughout the world.  It is obvious that many of these samples constitute a major influence on her growth as a critically acclaimed international artist.

This book/catalog also has a section in the back that explains various techniques for “working with wire.”  Great starting point for those whose interest has been whetted, but don’t know where to begin.

I was also fortunate to be able to study with Heikki Seppa.  Heikki was a friend and colleague of Mary Lee Hu and a devoted admirer.  Several of her small fine silver wire insects were nesting under the glass top of his coffee table.  Since he knew I was fascinated with textile techniques, he would take them out for me to touch.  Instead of firing up the torch, we would spend the afternoon studying and discussing the life-like renditions of these small creatures.

 I am so proud to know Mary Lee Hu and be the recipient of this beautiful catalog/book.  The photographic details are breathtaking.  If one doesn’t own one of her spectacular fine silver or gold pieces, the next best thing would be to purchase this catalog/book and marvel at the unbelievable “Knitted, Knotted, Twisted and Twined” creations featured in full splendor.