Marie Cuozzo
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Bears Nest Studio
Website
I have been “crafting” since I was a child. My grandmother taught me to knit at the age of seven, and I have been fulfilled by creating things with my hands and working with color ever since. Jewelry became a passion of mine more than a decade ago when I was introduced to an adaptation of the process of kumihimo.
My items are created using the ancient Japanese art with traditional equipment. This technique dates back to the 7th century. Materials in each piece may include semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystal, lampwork glass, handcrafted beaded beads, and sterling silver. Most items are individual, one of a kind pieces. I demonstrate the kumihimo process as a way of sharing the unique history of the technique and its historical significance in Japanese culture.