Who are you and what do you do?
I founded Material+Movement in 2009 as an umbrella for my artistic exploits and dance endeavors. My biggest project involves making polished and contemporary jewelry from vintage china plates. I love every part of it! From finding old plates/shards to cutting and grinding them up, and transforming them into a completely different beautiful object.

You can learn more at www.materialandmovement.com

What’s the latest thing you’ve been working on?
Actually upgrading my studio in Ballard. Lots of cleaning and organizing. It will certainly refresh and inspire my work!

How did you get started in your business?
I broke my favorite plate; and didn’t have the heart to throw away the shards. With my background in glass art, I took the shards to the coldworking machines used to cut, grind, and polish glass, and my first ceramic jewelry piece was made.

Are you debuting anything new at the winter show?
I’m excited to show some new designs that incorporate metal elements.

Who’s your biggest fan?
Definitely my Mom, haha. I’ve received some pretty huge compliments from customers, however. One gentlemen bought a necklace for his wife to celebrate the birth of their first child. And I’ve helped commemorate great grandmothers by transforming their family china into heirloom jewelry for other family members. It’s an amazing feeling to know that my work was chosen to be a part of that memory or event.

What’s your favorite item that you sell?
The jewelry featuring plates from old events or tourist sites. I have a necklace that’s made from a 1990 Goodwill Games plate that makes for an interesting and design. There’s a plate I’m saving for something special; it’s from Supercuts, the hair cutting chain. It’s commemorating 25 years in business. I laugh at these finds; they seem very random.

What do your customers love most about your products?
The moment they realize what my jewelry is made from. Some don’t realize it and have to ask what the material is. Others see it after a few moments. All of them can’t believe that an old plate made that big of a jump.