CAMEO IS AN ONGOING SERIES FEATURING CANADIAN JEWELLERY ARTISTS. HERE, THEY SHARE THEIR LATEST THOUGHTS AND INSIGHTS, AND GIVE US A PEEK INTO THEIR PRACTICE. 

CAMEO:

Marty Adem

Tkaronto, Ontario
@marty.adem
martyadem.ca

Photo by Greg Fraser

Photo by Greg Fraser


Describe your current work/practice in one sentence.

I am currently exploring the world, colours, and textures of fungal and bacterial forms, specifically molds, yeasts, and lichens, through the use of patinas.


What are three things/ideas that inspire you?

Nature, particularly bio-structures and bio-processes
Liminality/Fluidity
Magick in the Mundane


What other things do you do besides your jewellery practice?

I am a vocalist for an experimental ambient metal band called UXVAE, and would typically be playing some show at least once a month, if it weren't for COVID. I also currently work for a company called Little Symphony that creates music for relaxation, which I believe is so important for people! Other creative pursuits - I write open-form poetry, play guitar, and knit very cozy socks. Oh, and I love going for hikes outside the city - the Bruce Trail and Niagara Escarpment are such a GIFT.


My favourite piece at the moment is my latest Moldy Boi ring. I am really satisfied with the overall shape I achieved, and I am especially excited by the colours and textures that I achieved through the use of patinas. This is something I am curious to explore more in my current practice.

What is a favourite piece that you’ve made and why?


Marty Adem
Moldy Boi Ring (2021)
Sterling Silver, copper, pearls
Photo by the artist


Marty Adem
Dreams of Tenochtitlan (2021)
Sterling silver, gold plating, enamel, Mexican fire opal, red garnets,
Photo by the artist


Diverse

What word pops into your mind when you think of Canadian art jewellery?


I am currently focusing on getting my jewellery creations into brick and mortar stores (I just delivered some goods to Likely General in the Roncesvalles neighbourhood!), finishing up my final year at George Brown College, and applying for some residencies for Fall 2021/Winter 2022.

What is coming up next for you?


Published: 2021/07/17