mixed materials

Nigerian-born artisan Nonyem Abena Ibeneme presents a handcrafted choker made from mixed materials. Colorful discs and tubular beads made from recycled plastic are combined with beads of bamboo and a toggle clasp of wood for a necklace with contemporary ethnic appeal.

Beto Araluce traces the movement of dancers in low relief on a set of four canvases. "Dance is an ancestral method for achieving an altered state of consciousness and knowledge. Dervishes use it in Turkey, as did the Maya civilization. Dance as union, dance as the great pacifier. That great union of the material with the spiritual in a dance that begins with inner peace, with music and meditation," he says. Araluce works in mixed media on canvas, adding texture with sand and resins. He then applied a layer of 18k gold leaf.

Titled "Danza dorada I paz" in Spanish

Creatively combining different materials, Mexican artisans Martha and Ambar Mireles craft these lovely dangle earrings. The 18k gold plated steel wire earrings feature handcrafted ovals of ceramic above glossy blue crystal beads.

Creatively combining different materials, Martha and Ambar Mireles in Mexico craft these lovely dangle earrings. The 18k gold plated steel wire earrings feature handcrafted ovals of ceramic above glossy aqua crystal beads.

Mexican artisans Martha and Ambar Mireles creatively combine different materials to craft these lovely dangle earrings. The 18k gold plated steel wire earrings feature handcrafted ovals of ceramic above pale aqua crystal beads.