Becklaces officially began in 2003, with the birth of a clever moniker coined by my witty (now) brother-in-law. But Becklaces have been a long time coming. Inspired by my artist Dad and crafty Mom, I always loved creating. I looked forward to birthdays where we would design puffy paint t-shirts or caterpillar magnets. Art was my favorite subject in school (along with history) and arts & crafts my favorite time slot during summer camp. The single strand beaded necklaces or woven friendship bracelets were put aside and forgotten as I focused on more traditionally academic art and schooling throughout high school and college.
2002: French West Indies. In one of the many boutiques I admired an intricately woven beaded necklace like none I had ever seen before. I was in love but dismayed at the extravagant price tag. I decided to try to create my own version. Back at my parents house I sifted through leftover beads from a beaded lampshade project and rediscovered a small loom I had given up on. I took them back to DC with me and created my first original Becklace. I found a bead shop nearby and bought more supplies with relish. I applied for a summer job at the shop and when I started working there my paychecks and discounts were put to good use. I learned new techniques and was inspired by the wealth of inventory and the creativity of my coworkers and customers. More and more creations were inevitably flying through my fingers.
Since those days Becklaces have been exhibited and sold at Beadazzled in Dupont Circle and The Bead Museum of Washington, D.C. I have assisted Torpedo Factory Art Center artist-in-residence Dawn Benedetto and have expanded my jewelry knowledge through classes and workshops at The Art League School in Alexandria, VA. Though I have learned simple silver soldering and how to make my own glass beads, my passion still lies in wirework, stringing, and beading. I’ve always appreciated functional art (focusing in ceramics as an art major) and wearable art. I have been known to comment on the naked necks of my friends and family and take great pleasure in decorating them with new creations.
I strongly believe in accessorizing! I’ll often design with a particular outfit in mind. My latest designs are crafted from feminine delicate pearls, sparkly crystals and blends of silver and gold chains and charms that tend toward the more organic and asymmetrical orientation, ultimately creating a look that is fresh and bold yet rooted in the classic and romantic. I’d like to think Becklaces can be an extension of personality and help convey or express mood. Be it fun and playful, innocent or flirty, simple or sophisticated – Becklaces are always unique.
Thank you for visiting my site and I hope you have as much fun perusing Becklaces as I have had creating them!
Yours truly,
Becky Heath
Alexandria, VA
