Contemporary Art Jewelry in Polymer Clay
Luminous surfaces. Subtle, sophisticated color. Elegant organic forms.
Polymer Form is an independent reference on contemporary art jewelry and sculpture in polymer clay — the techniques that define the medium, the way its surfaces are built, and how the work should be looked at and looked after. Nothing here is for sale.
The Art of Polymer Clay
Polymer clay offers extraordinary possibilities for artistic expression. Unlike traditional ceramic clay, polymer clay can achieve luminous translucent effects, subtle color gradations, and intricate surface treatments that capture and reflect light in unexpected ways.
The family of surface treatments known as "crazed acrylic" combines polymer clay with acrylic paints to create shimmering, iridescent surfaces that seem to glow from within. The result is jewelry that appears almost alive, suggesting budding plants, rippling water, or the soft glow of twilight.
Collections
Explore the complete range of handcrafted art jewelry:
Necklaces
Statement pieces featuring organic forms and luminous color blends, designed to move gracefully with the wearer.
Brooches
Wearable sculptures that function as touchstones to nature's pleasures and mysteries.
Bracelets
Innovative cuff and bangle designs including the popular Boa Bangle and Ruffle Cuff collections.
Earrings
Lightweight yet substantial earrings that frame the face with organic elegance.
Sculpture
Larger works exploring the boundaries of the polymer medium.
Limited Edition and One-of-a-Kind
Every piece is either limited edition or completely one-of-a-kind. The nature of the crazed acrylic technique means that no two pieces can ever be exactly alike. Each brooch, necklace, or sculpture captures a unique moment in the creative process.
Recognition
The medium's standing has changed markedly. Work in polymer has been shown by institutions with serious contemporary craft programmes, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Portland Museum of Art and the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, and the form is covered regularly in American Craft, Ornament and the wider craft press. Juried recognition such as the NICHE Awards did much to establish a public standard for the field.
Philosophy
When collectors describe this kind of work as "suggestive," they have understood the intent. Through abstract form and subtle color, each piece functions as a connection to the pleasures and mysteries of nature. A brooch might evoke budding plants or reflections off a rippling stream. Earrings might suggest succulent fruit. The goal is to create art that teases the imagination while remaining elegant and wearable.
Learn more about the medium and how it developed, explore the crazed acrylic technique, or see where the work is exhibited.