Sorrel Sky Gallery hosts a jewelry show on December 1, 2017, at its downtown location, 828 Main Ave from 5:00-9:00 pm, featuring the graceful and sophisticated jewelry of Native American artist Maria Samora. The opening reception, during Durango’s Annual Noel Night Celebration, will present the opportunity to discuss with the artist the inspiration behind her designs. The show continues through December.
"Maria's seemingly effortless blending of both traditional and contemporary influences creates truly wearable art." - Shanan Campbell Wells
Diamond Strata Cuff with Tibetan Turquoise by Maria Samora
Maria Samora’s luxury jewelry designs are inspired by Pueblo Indian tradition and culture but resonate with contemporary influences and her own creative spirit. Originally from Taos Pueblo, Samora’s work reflects the quiet, simple beauty of her home. Viewed as a prodigy, Samora has become a premier Native American jeweler. In only her second year showing at the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Santa Fe Indian Market, she won first place. She won again in 2007, and two years later her work was featured on the official SWAIA Indian Market poster, the youngest artist ever to receive such an award, the first jeweler ever, and one of only three other women selected in the 88-year history of the market. Since then, her jewelry has become highly coveted nationally and internationally. Using ethically produced 18k gold and sterling silver, as well as hand-selected diamonds, pearls, and other gemstones, she personally wears every bracelet, every necklace, herself to ensure they are as functional as they are beautiful.
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Maria Samora - photo courtesy of Kevin Rebholtz [/caption]
“My designs appeal to the senses and come to life on the body,” Samora says. “The purpose of my art is to accentuate the body and capture the movement of the human form, enhancing one’s personal beauty and grace with sophistication and elegance.”
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Diamond Pyramid Ring by Maria Samora[/caption]
Owner Shanan Campbell Wells sees Samora’s work as subtly innovative, “Maria’s designs are delicately complex. They almost contradict themselves with their intricate minimalism; something often only found in nature itself. Her seemingly effortless blending of both traditional and contemporary influences creates truly wearable art.”
Sorrel Sky Gallery’s visionary approach to Western art allows both new and experienced art enthusiasts the opportunity to select from a distinctive collection of contemporary and traditional fine art and jewelry. Founded in Durango, CO in 2002, Sorrel Sky Gallery opened its second location in Santa Fe, NM in 2014. Representing several acclaimed and renowned painters, sculptors and jewelers, including Kevin Red Star, Star Liana York, and former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse, among others.