The Queue: Jennifer Younger
Discover what individuals from our craft community are into right now.
Introducing the Gift series of The Queue
A weekly roundup for and by the craft community, the Gift series of The Queue introduces you to the artists featured in the most recent issue of American Craft. We invite these inspiring individuals to share personally about their lives and work as well as the projects, books, podcasts, and more that are inspiring them right now.
A supportive community of artists is a gift that goes both ways
Jennifer Younger is a jewelry artist living and working in Sitka, Alaska. She's one of four artists featured in "Natural Metalsmiths," a piece that explores tradition, innovation, materiality, and symbolism in jewelry work, and is also featured on the cover of our December/January issue. @jennifers_copper_silver
How do you describe your work or practice in 50 words or less?
I create engraved contemporary jewelry, incorporating traditional Tlingit formline design.
During this time of isolation and social unrest, where are you finding beauty and how are you staying grounded?
I’m finding beauty and focus in creating – not only in my own jewelry creations but also in collaboration with other artists. Sharing ideas, sharing our joys and our hardships. I‘m grateful I have a community to share with.
↑ Portrait: Erica Elan
↑ On the cover of the Gift issue of American Craft, Jennifer uses a homemade shaping block to create her Raven Flare copper cuff. Read more about her practice in "Natural Metalsmiths."
On the theme of our December/January issue, what does giving mean to you and your work, particularly during this challenging year?
I get to do something I love. To have others appreciate it and support my work is a blessing. My way to give back is to support other makers and artists.
What’s one of your go-to tools in your toolkit that the world should know about?
Don’t laugh! It’s an old broken wooden hammer handle. I use it for the final step in shaping bracelets. I swear I smile inside every time I use it. I don’t need anything “fancy.”
What podcast should we be listening to right now?
Create Well Podcast (@createwellpodcast) - my friends Erica and Raye started the podcast this year. Insightful interviews with entrepreneurs, artists and wellness groups...sharing perspectives on an array of topics.
↑ Alison Bremner, Metamorphosis, 2019, acrylic on rawhide drum, 35.5 x 35.5 x 3.5 in.
Photo: Courtesy of the artist
If you could purchase any artist's work for your home or studio, whose would it be and why?
Oh, that’s easy: Alison Bremner's work! She is an amazing Tlingit formline artist from my hometown of Yakutat, Alaska. She takes formline to a contemporary art form: bright colors and many painted designs show her great sense of humor! @caffeinatedraven on IG.
I’m finding beauty and focus in creating – not only in my own jewelry creations but also in collaboration with other artists.
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