Lavender

sterling silver and brass

Collection is most often referred to as the action or process of collecting an assembly of items that hold a combination of symbolic, historical and aesthetic value.   These values are often associated with themes of history, identity, and community and the important relationships they have with one another.  Drawing inspiration from the themes and characters in the film Everything is Illuminated, by Jonathan Safran Foer, I have chosen to fabricate a small collection of bullets that embrace traditional forms of Russian lace and the role of women in Ukraine during the Second World War.   Much of the film is about understanding one’s own cultural heritage and values; while also acknowledging the memories that are tied to these relationships.  Upon reflecting on the ways in which Ukrainian culture was portrayed in the film during the Second World War I have come to better understand the effect and impact of war on women and the varying ways with which they’ve contributed to serving their country.  This collection of bullets is meant to embrace these themes - through the integration of Russian lace, a bullet, and the lingering scent of lavender – leaving the mere trace of a memory that can be interpreted in a variety of ways.

experimentation with saw piercing lace patterns in sterling silver

forming sterling silver sheet and experimenting with brass bullet tips on the lathe

I have chosen to present this collection of bullets in a box that was inspired by traditional ammunition cartons - I'd have liked to build this box in wood and potentially screenprint the lace pattern from the bullets on the outside slipcover..but I will have to save that project for another day!

the inside of the bullet has been filled with wool, soaked in essential lavender oil, in hope that this lingering scent may invoke traces of memory that can be interpreted in various ways.