Iris - Repair
Artist: Molly Epstein
Materials: Sterling silver, concrete, brass, Yukata fabric
Dimensions: 18" x 4"x .5"
Fabric Motif: The iris has many symbolic meanings in Japan including courage and good news. They are often given to people facing challenges or trying something new.
Haiku: second summer
the riverside irises
re-blooming
- Paula Sears
About the Work: "The iris on the Yukata fabric that I was given were so beautiful and delicate, and the colors of the fabric, so peaceful. Contrasting the chaos of life at this time with the tranquil feelings this fabric evoked in me was what caught my attention. I created Repair to work toward achieving that feeling despite the messiness of life right now- piece by piece, brick by brick. I began with the mirror as a symbol for self reflection. I cut each flower petal and arranged them in a way that felt like they were falling. The concrete, as a material used to build and repair broken parts."
Molly Epstein Bio: Molly Epstein received a BFA in Metals and Jewelry from Tyler School of Art and MFA from the University of Washington in Seattle.
Making objects, mostly in metal, has been a through-line Molly's entire life. Now that her kids are older, she is able to spend longer amounts of uninterrupted time in her studio, which is truly a gift. Molly and her family relocated from Seattle to Austin in 2022 and have been adjusting to the heat.
This piece is part of the Yukata Inspired 2025, a collaborative exhibition between Okan Arts & Danaca Design featuring jewelry and metalwork alongside Haiku from Haiku Northwest. Learn more and view the entire collection HERE.
