In the world of jewelry design, Susanne Verallo stands out as an artist and maker who has embraced the rich tapestry of Filipino culture to craft exquisite pieces under her eponymous label, Susanne Verallo, and her evolving jewelry line, Una Artesana. Her creativity knows no bounds as she weaves stories from ancient myths and legends into wearable art that captures the essence of the Philippines.
While metal smithing classes were part of Susanne's initial plan, the pandemic forced her to reimagine her journey as an artist. Undeterred, she turned to alternative jewelry-making techniques and found solace in bead weaving. Armed with an assortment of beads and an unwavering determination, she taught herself the intricacies of this craft through online tutorials, ultimately paving the way for her unique artistic expression.
Drawing inspiration from her homeland, Susanne delved deep into the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. She immersed herself in the world of precolonial myths and folklore, discovering a wealth of captivating stories passed down through generations. It was during this exploration that the seeds of Una Artesana were sown.
The first volume of jewelry from Una Artesana, aptly named "Langit," emerged as a testament to Susanne's creativity and connection with her ancestors. Each piece in this collection is a visual manifestation of the captivating tales and legends she unearthed. Susanne skillfully weaves the essence of these stories into her jewelry, giving them a voice and a physical form that resonates with the wearer.
Una Artesana has now evolved from a personal project into a full-fledged jewelry line, embracing the essence of Filipino culture in each creation. While Susanne remains open to exploring various mediums and techniques in jewelry-making, her unwavering focus will always be on her beloved Philippines—its vibrant culture, fascinating history, and resilient people.
The artistry behind Una Artesana's jewelry lies in the meticulous and labor-intensive process of bead weaving. Susanne employs two primary techniques—loom weaving and off-loom weaving—depending on the design requirements. The intricate off-loom weaving technique, utilizing a combination of bead weaving stitches, forms the foundation of most jewelry pieces. However, some chokers come to life through the loom weaving technique.
The dedication and patience required to complete a single piece are truly remarkable. Depending on the complexity of the design, the creation process can span anywhere from 2 to 12 hours. Each bead is meticulously placed by hand, with the artist pouring her heart and soul into every stitch. The result is a wearable work of art that embodies the spirit of Una Artesana—uniquely crafted, culturally infused, and visually captivating.
As you embark on this journey with Una Artesana, Susanne Verallo invites you to explore the untold stories that lie at the heart of her jewelry. Through her creations, she breathes life into the myths and legends of the Philippines, ensuring their preservation and celebrating the profound beauty of her homeland.
Join Susanne on this artistic odyssey and witness the remarkable fusion of craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and creative expression. Una Artesana's captivating jewelry pieces will transport you to a realm where tradition meets innovation, and Filipino mythology finds its place in contemporary artistry.
To learn more about its origins and delve deeper into the artist's world, visit https://susanneverallo.com and embark on an enchanting exploration of Filipino-inspired