Meet Daria Salus
Daria Salus
Though I grew up in Chicago, it was while living in Santa Cruz, California that I began my work as a jeweler.
During this time, I developed a deep connection to the ocean and forest environments that have inspired much of my work. From the beginning I have been captivated by the experience of coaxing images out a solid sheet of metal with my saw, hammer, and torch.
I first studied at Cabrillo College in the early 90s and then transferred to San Jose State University. There, I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree emphasizing small metals. In addition, I was a jeweler’s apprentice for three years, learning repairs and the fine jewelry trade. I am also a member of the Monterey Bay Metal Arts Guild, the San Francisco Metal Arts Guild, the Society of North American Goldsmiths and of the Northern California Enamel Guild.
Currently, I am creating jewelry designs in sterling silver and copper enamel. I hand fabricate all of my work using techniques like overlay, etching, forming, enameling, roller printing and bezel setting. The process I use to create images in my enamel work is my own unique version of the basse-taille technique. It involves a photo-etching process, and the application of an underglaze to set off the etched image in black. I then use transparent enamels to add color to the piece while allowing the image to show through.
Many of my images come from photos I have taken myself. I continue to develop new lines of jewelry inspired by my natural surroundings. My latest line is directly inspired by my encounters in a new “urban” habitat. For instance, many of my images of birds on wires are from photos I've taken around the different neighborhoods I am familiar with.
An American Heirloom Crafts Initiating Artist.
