True confession: I recently discovered the art of local artist, Galina Szakacs, and became instantly obsessed. It began with her one of a kind jewelry. Then came the bowls, vases, ornaments and other objects d’art. Every day is a new creation, and they are all simply stunning. Her art moves me in the same way that my garden moves me. With dazzling, complex patterns of color changing with the passage of light. Unexpectedly nuanced combinations of texture and color that make me smile!

Galina’s creative voice, what she refers to as her “Conversation with Clay”, is expressed through intricate patterns of polymer clay that she first creates, then manipulates, to evoke memories of textiles from her childhood in Moldova to the brilliant foliage seen near her current home in New England. Many of Galina’s creations evoke the sensuous jeweled tones of Austrian Symbolist painter Gustav Klimt and the complex designs of Victor Vasarely, a Hungarian-French artist, who is widely accepted as a “grandfather” and leader of the Op Art movement.

Others bring to mind the complex patterning of Persian rugs. Others have been inspired by her trips to my garden at the peak of color. Her pieces are retro, contemporary and current all at the same time.

Galina’s art pieces frequently include “found” or re-purposed glass items that are joined together with the clay designs, marrying the best of the old and the new. “I give new life to vintage items so the new owner has an opportunity to begin their own personal conversation with the piece,” says Galina.

Particular favorites of mine are the glass pieces enhanced with translucent clay, allowing them to shimmer and dance with the passage of light.

Here’s just a small sample of her glass and clay bowl creations. Click to enlarge and arrow right or left:

To fully appreciate Galina’s artistry, her objects d’art need to be seen in person. My photos do not do them justice. Imagine solid blocks of clay that are blended and shaped, emerging as colorful, highly detailed patterns ready to be sliced into paper-fine pieces and then artfully molded into jewelry, or joined with glass bowls or vases. It’s a time consuming and detailed process but the results are so rewarding! And, no two pieces are alike.

The following photos show Galina’s original creations of polymer clay ‘canes’ that will be sliced and further manipulated to create her one of a kind designs:

Galina’s original jewelry designs truly offer something for everyone as each clay “conversation” results in a highly unique piece of wearable art. Most items can be worn as a pin or as a necklace on choker or chain. I receive many compliments when wearing her jewelry!

You can view and purchase Galina’s custom creations at this Open House Event on December 14, 2019 in Nashua, NH. Or to schedule a private showing, please email her at galina@szakacs.org.