Linda Magi
[1977, Jewelry & Metalsmithing]

Based in Rochester, NY

Linda Magi’s RISD Craft Gallery

Interesting design, expert craftsmanship and attention to detail can transform ordinary materials into special objects. I follow this concept as I craft cotton yarn, maple twigs, semi precious stones, silver and other materials into jewelry that redefines the meaning of preciousness.

What are some of the most important practices for your creative process?

Observation and the analysis of what I have observed is an important part of my creative process. Sometimes it is the observation of the world around me and at other times it is the observation of the parts that I have made for my jewelry. I always have parts laid out on my workbench and I am constantly playing with them and thinking about how to put them together.

How does your current creative practice tie into your time spent at RISD?

My time at RISD laid a good foundation for what I do now. Especially significant are the long hours spent working in the studio experimenting, trying out new Ideas and developing my jewelry making skills. Being surrounded by others working in the studio was also an important part of the experience. I learned a lot by observing their processes, successes and mistakes.

Tell us about some of your main sources of inspiration.

Inspiration can come from anywhere. While cleaning up brush and cutting down maple saplings at my cottage in Canada I was fascinated by the organic twists and turns of the branches. Taking inspiration from a bench my grandfather had made and my knowledge and admiration of Adirondack style furniture I decided to try incorporating twigs into my jewelry.

Is there a work/body of work that you are particularly excited about sharing with us at RISD Craft this year?

Elements I have crocheted using cotton thread have been part of my jewelry for a long time. Only recently have I started experimenting with crocheting, knitting and other fiber techniques using fine silver wire. I will be showing earrings and necklaces using these techniques at RISD Craft.

Any recent press, exhibitions, achievements or awards you’d like to share with us?

I was recently a guest on the Graphic Ear program on WAYO 104.3 fm radio talking about making, my jewelry and influences, including my time at RISD. Listen to the podcast here.

To see more of Linda’s work, visit lindamagi.com