Brazilian artist, Miriam Chor Freitas, came to the United States bringing with her two generations of family tradition in the jewelry trade. Despite her artistic inclinations, she first pursued a meaningful career in child welfare; before talent and creativity took over and Miriam’s Signature Wire Crochet Collection was born in 2005.
Bio - Jackie Karnavas
The bags represent the happy memories of her mom swimming with the flower swim caps on. These patent pending bags are recreatingthe swim caps of the past and bringing forward in a creative way to show Jackie’s daughter a piece of the grandma she never knew.
Babette DeCastro, a singer with hit records in her time, was an incredible inspiration to women of all ages. She was financially independent through hard work, she was strong, she had a passion for life and a dynamic electrifying personality. She paved a road for her daughters to do the same, yet most of all she loved her kids. Babette died of breast cancer in early 1992, yet still has such a strong presence in all of the lives she touched.
Jackie Karnavas resides in Cardiff by the Sea, California, with her husband, daughter and two dogs.
Bio - Bead Artistry by Nancy
I believe I was born to create. My love of nature and the beauty and texture I see and feel in rock, wood and all forms of plants began in my early years camping with the Girl Scouts. It has continued over the past 35 years as I travel extensively throughout the west and southwest visiting the grand and glorious geologic wonders we are so lucky to have surrounding us.
I have always worked with my hands as an interpretation of my vision, first through needlework and sewing, and later creating beautiful floral arrangements for large parties at hotels in San Diego.
After spending 20 years in the business world, I spent a great deal of time in quest of once again finding the satisfaction and fulfillment I feel when expressing my creative spirit. Once I found beading I knew it was going to play a huge part in the rest of my life.
Bead embroidery and bead weaving allow me to touch, feel and see what has always been my love of nature. The focus of many of my unique pieces is centered around a stone or vintage piece. The enhancing stones I use are either natural or of other elements which enhance the beauty of the focal piece. Each piece speaks to me and guides my hands to create my intricate necklaces, bracelets and home accessories. When not wearing them, I enjoy the jewelry displayed in my home embellishing special art pieces I have collected on my travels.
What was started as a hobby blossomed quickly as the positive response to my work grew. I am thrilled that it has now enabled me to share what I love with others.