Dragonflies on Olive - Coriolis Earrings
Artist: Nancy Bonnema
Materials: sterling silver, 24 kt gold leaf, 18 kt gold ball on clasp, pre-enameled steel
Dimensions: Earrings: 1 1/2 in. long, 1 1/4 in. wide - Necklace: 18- 18.5 in. length
Fabric Motif: Dragonflies in Japan have many symbolic meanings including courage and good fortune
Haiku: haggard dragonfly,
like a laggard dagger, poised
there in the moist air
- Brasswax
About the Work: "Dragonflies in Japan have many symbolic meanings including courage and good fortune. Starting from a scientific standpoint, I studied the dragonfly's motion in air and discovered the Coriolis effect, an apparent force acting perpendicular to the direction of motion. Helicopter propellors and airplane wings replicate the pattern of airflow surrounding the dragonfly's wing, an the application of this force in modern technology and science. All pieces of my necklace flow together like the flight path of a dragonfly gliding through the air.
I have been influenced by the ""Keith Lewis"" technique of applying golf leaf to pre- enameled steel. Then, I made decals and fired them on top of the 24 carat gold. Finally, I fabricated the pieces inspired by the flight path of a dragonfly."
Nancy Bonnema Bio: "I am a metalsmith and an enamellist. The course with Keith Lewis changed my direction and opened up a new path for me. I loved the 24 kt gold leaf on the pre-enameled steel and it was a WOW! factor. I plan to explore it more and see where it evolves."
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.
