GOOD WORK

Enchanting Elegance

By KIRK PRESCOTT, BAR XP PHOTO

“Creating a custom jewelry piece is all about exploring the quiet corners of our imagination, together, to bring forth a truly bespoken creation, beyond imitation… My strength and uniqueness as a goldsmith lies in my ability to translate these subtleties into thoughtful symbolisms, within a timeless and quality art piece.” - Emily Sterling

Born and raised in North Vancouver, BC, Emily Sterling has a unique, creative soul, a passionate, natural talent and a captivating presence. Her charismatic jewelry has shone beneath the lavish lights of Los Angeles and graced the laid-back, western landscape of the prairies with zest. Sterling’s quest for self-expression and her family’s creative roots have innately fuelled her love of fine-art and jewelry. Her creative process seamlessly aligns her client’s aspirations with her talent and her creative offerings tell a story of challenge, inspiration and unity.

Looking back, Sterling credits her wonderfully creative home and summers spent on the road in her family’s camper van, for the introduction to her craft. Be it prospecting for stones on her grandparent’s farm in Savona, BC, or her formal education, Sterling’s journey to present-day is enchanting. With a grandfather who was a hobbyist stone-cutter, a grandmother who was a hobbyist silversmith, and a father who is a very talented, classical sign-painter – Sterling’s foundation is charged with talent and inspiration.

“I was naturally encouraged to explore my creativity. When it came time for post-secondary education, it was never questioned when taking a nontraditional route as my career. I had always been creative but I didn’t find my own medium until 2009 when I decided to attend The Vancouver Metal Arts School for a two year program of Jewelry and Object Design,” relays Sterling.

Sterling instantly fell in love with working in metal and notes that the rest came naturally. Following a highly credible internship in Germany, Sterling slowly planted the seeds of her business while simultaneously working in the industry, collecting hands-on experience. She remains grateful for the opportunity to work alongside several master goldsmiths in her hometown of Vancouver, BC, and in Kelowna, BC. The artist admires a deep connection with inspired-space and her breathtaking view of the Canadian Rocky Mountains as the perfect location to create intentional, handcrafted pieces that are one of a kind.

What is the focus of your craft and what types of products are most commonly found in your collection/ portfolio?

I aspire to tell a story with each adornment I create. As my work is always one of a kind, a lot of intention goes into the designing process. The majority of my

portfolio is filled with unique/alternative engagement and wedding jewelry. I am very passionate about how we honour and celebrate the union of two people, or more importantly the one we have with ourselves, and I believe these relationships are all so unique, and in turn, deserve an authentic approach to anchor that union.

What is your typical process of creation and how might clients help you achieve their vision?

I first start with a custom design consultation. When my clients go to book their consultation on my website, I have a questionnaire for them to fill out that asks several questions about their vision for the piece, as well as any potential symbolisms, stories and/or intentions that I can thoughtfully weave into the designs.

From here, I begin to tell their story through form, texture, color, mineral properties, the list is endless. I provide them with three unique and one-of-kind designs to choose from, based on the information we collected together.

From these three designs, we then discuss any potential changes the client would like to see, and come up with one final and ideal design. Along with a variety of investment options, including gemstones, diamonds, metals, etc.

What challenges do you face in your creative process and how do you redirect / refocus / ignite your artistic passion?

Perfectionism is certainly a challenge in my profession. Balancing being an artist, being creative and free, with being a tradeswoman and upholding the level of craftsmanship and technique that I value within each piece, is also a challenge. Being a goldsmith, there is no cap on the level of expertise that one can reach. With each piece I evolve into a higher standard. This is so fulfilling and exciting, and it can also be very intimidating. I am very devoted to my spiritual practices to keep myself centered, focused, and inspired. Meditation, shadow work, exercise, and living immersed in nature are all essential forms of self-care that keep me aligned.

If you could share a few of your career highlights, what might those be?

The first would be apprenticing for Atelier Zobel, one of the most talented and renowned jewellers in the world, that experience never gets old in my heart.

The next would be going all in with my business four years ago, when I moved to the Kootenays. Everything unfolded for me at that point in my life and despite the challenges that entrepreneurial life comes with – especially amidst a global pandemic – I can’t imagine my life in any other capacity.

And then of course, certain projects where my clients and I align soulfully and creatively, which is the case for almost every project these days. There is no better feeling than having someone come to me with a beautiful intention and trusting me to translate that sentiment into precious metals and gemstones. Being able to utilize my technical skills within challenging and interesting pieces, while also incorporating my spiritual and playful side, and fusing them both together into a piece of fine jewelry. It never gets old.

Do you have a favourite stone/metal to work with?

My favourite gemstone is a Spessartite Garnet. I’ve yet to work with one, but I have the most magnificent one in my hands that will be making its debut in my upcoming fire element collection. I love any gemstone that has a good hardness, and a vibrant colour! I love the juxtaposition of oxidized (blackened) silver with high karat golds, and I adore textured Platinum! It glows.

storytelling pieces, and I have something completely new and exciting on the horizon that will align with my mission to guide other creatives.

Who or what inspires you and do you see glimpses of that in your product?

Nature would be an obvious source of inspiration in my work, but when I really break it down deeper than that, it’s more that. I am inspired by people, and capturing their wild individuality. We are nature after all, our stories and spirits are elemental. I am also deeply inspired by the women in my life right now. I see the way they show up in the world and it’s contagious. I can’t help but infuse elements of their essence into my work, their wildness, their poetry.

How have you adapted your practice to maintain efficiency and uphold your values/visions as an artist?

I am forever adapting, especially these days! I would say that my devotion to my inner work is how I best maintain efficiency while upholding my values and vision. I am currently working away on gallery collections while I create my custom

What advice would you share with a client who is considering a custom piece?

Don’t look around at things you’ve seen before, or what others like or have. We are all so innately creative, trust yourself and let your story guide us to something truly one of a kind.

What goals/aspirations do you have for the next few years?

I aspire to continue to deepen the way that I offer my art and the way that I cocreate with my clients. I will be continuing to strengthen the way in which I offer immersive experiences. For example, when I have my land, I will be guiding my clients to become their own designer, and their own maker. And without giving too much away, I am feeling deeply pulled to utilize my experience and knowledge to help guide other artists. Inspiration is flowing for the future of my creative offerings. WHR