The shape of a leaf, an insect or a pod. For many of us, they are simply that – a leaf, an insect and a pod. For Steveston jewellery designer/goldsmith Sasha Shkolnik these innocuous objects in nature inspire many of her stunning pieces of jewellery.“I also love to travel and I get a lot of visual and design stimulation from the countries I visit,” says Sasha. “I was in a restaurant once and noticed potpourri on the counter. I was attracted to the various shapes and that spawned the idea for a collection of pendants, earring and rings that I call the African Violet.” As one steps into Juvelisto, one is transported into a world where Sasha’s imagination and inspiration birth pieces of art that one can wear. The Ukrainian-born artist was educated in the arts and trained as a painter. In fact, Juvelisto’s walls are adorned with some of her bold and colourful paintings.A look inside her jewellery cases reveals pieces that are eclectic, sometimes edgy, always unique, stunning and organic. Her jewellery make you believe in dreams and fairytales – where a silver pod, husked corn or gold nut filled with precious stones, fresh water pearls or gems tell a story Sasha has created just for you.
