Unisex Octopus Cuff Bracelet Hand-Engraved Sterling Oxidized Native Art

Description

A symbol of change. A symbol of transformation.
Within Northwest Coast Native culture, the 'Octopus' is revered for its ability to shape-shift and become camouflage when needed. This hand-engraved Native cuff measures 1 1/4" wide and is 6" long, which will fit a wrist between 6 1/4" - 6 1/2" in circumference. After this piece was hand-engraved and rounded, the artist Kelvin Thompson finished it with a sulphur compound which turned the entire cuff black. Then, the bracelet was buffed so only the recessed areas remained dark. This oxidization process both provides the piece with an antiqued appearance and enables the design to really pop.
Kelvin Thompson carves jewellery in silver and gold, but also creates bowls and masks from alder, maple and cedar. In 1979, he studied under and worked with Barry and Derek Wilson at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, and in 1980 carved a totem pole with Henry Robinson for the Friendship Centre. He has been adopted into Henry's Haisla family. From oxidizing to intricate cut-out work, Kelvin is always experimenting and trying new things with his jewellery. In addition, he has taught many artists how to carve in silver and gold, and he is passionate about passing skills and information on to younger carvers. From September, 2007 to February, 2008 Kelvin aided Kwakwaka’wakw/Haida artist Dan Wallace in teaching the first annual Northwest Coast Jewellery Arts Program, which was held at Vancouver’s Native Education College. In 2009, Kelvin was commissioned to engrave five cuff bracelets for James Taylor, Elvis Costello, Diana Krall, Elton John, and Vicki Gabereau for the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation fundraiser 'An Evening with Diana Krall'.
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