Didi Suydam Vessel I

Materials: sterling silver

Vessel Pendant Dimensions: 2" H x 1.5" W 
Chain Length: 28"

"The two pieces I have created for the Plan B project incorporate a symbol resembling the IUD. Because the use of the IUD may potentially become illegal as a form of birth control, deeming any woman using it as a “murderer”, I found it fitting to pair it with the amphora which represents a dangerous , and potentially lethal, form of birth control for women. In the silver piece, the pattern on the front leads to the handles of the amphora to suggest a “T” shape similar to the IUD form. In the second piece, the oxidized bottle, the form at the top of the chain, which drops back into the amphora, also resembles the “T” form of the IUD."

About the artist:

Didi received her MFA degree in Jewelry/Light Metals from the Rhode Island School of Design.

She has exhibited and sold her work in galleries and shops internationally. She received the DeBeers Diamond Design Award, a Fellowship in Craft from The National Endowment for the Arts, as well as Rhode Island Council on the Arts Fellowships in both Craft and Design. She has been published in various books and magazines on American jewelers, metal smithing and design. She has been featured in Metalsmith Magazine, Metropolis Magazine,Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and the New York Times' "Fashion of the Times".

Didi’s pieces are hand fabricated in sterling silver and 18 KT gold bi-metal. “I love working in and have an affinity towards metal. My personal touch can be felt in each piece. I accent areas of the body with sculptural forms that complement or define the space. The relationship between the piece and the wearer is an intimate and personal one, conveying one's sense of self and exuding inner strength and balance. Jewelry is our personal “armor”, anchoring us and reflecting our confidence with grace. Looking back to ancient culture and architecture, I look for the essence of form: the spirit, the balance, and the elemental. It is important for the piece to respond to the landscape of the body. Body ornamentation is a sensual experience- it is felt and moves when worn.