Judy Schaefer is a designer, metalsmith, and weaver who makes art wear.
Form, line and curves make a strong statement in her work. Judy enjoys creating original pieces for people who enjoy wearing handmade art in an understated way.
Her jewelry hints at the magic of taking a seemingly hard surface — like a sheet of silver —and transforming it into a moving, fluid object. Her evolution as an artist includes recently introducing handwoven fabrics into her work. The dynamic tension of transforming the rigid into fluid forms, now includes generating fluid forms from their simplest elements: thread, fiber and pattern.
Judy’s clients and collectors appreciate her pieces for their workmanship – nearly all singular pieces she offers are hand made and one of a kind. However, this year, she opened her “Ovation Collection” to the public as well. Scarf slides, bracelets and necklaces in multiple materials show elegance in a bold form.
Using this exceedingly well-balanced and elegant shape, Judy has created a line that is affordable and supremely gift-able.
Visit Judy’s online store for ready-to-wear pieces, contact her about a commissioned piece, or visit her studio in Rhode Island.
Coming from a long line of estate gardeners, Judy followed her heritage to college and an associate’s degree in landscape design, and there developed even further her eye for color and design exhibited in her works. Nature is clearly present in her work: in form, materials and feel.
Judy has studied metalsmithing and art jewelry construction with many masters, including Betty Helen Longhi, Cynthia Eid, Michael Good and Charles Lewton-Brain. Her foray into weaving is inspired by many, and she now serves occasionally as teacher and mentor herself.
Originally from the North Shore of Long Island, NY, Judy has resided in Newport, Rhode Island for 25 years.
