Ling-Yen Jones is well-known on the local art scene as well as internationally-known for her intricately hand-tooled silver jewelry, incorporating semi-precious stones, pearls, copper and a large dose of whimsey. Her style ranges from the traditional to the modern, and is completely unique. All of her pieces are individually handmade, and are therefore one-of-a-kind or in small series with repeating motifs. Jones trained with David Laplantz at Humboldt State University, at Monterey Peninsula College, and various Mendocino Art Center workshops and assistantships.
In addition to a grueling travel schedule to exhibits and show venues all over the country, she is also the gallery coordinator of the Coast Highway Artist Collective in Point Arena. “I define jewelry as creations, which are useful, artistic, symbolic, identifying and an expression of personal ideas,” says Jones. “In my earring line some of the motifs I use are leaves, birds, and windows. When these elements and others are integrated into a piece they can represent new beginnings, changes, hope, and further growth in ones self. My intention for each one-of-a-kind piece are that it is clean looking, distinctive, and artistically rendered.” Jones continues “the pieces with the Asian-like faces are inspired by the feminine, graceful and romantic scenes of the Ukiyo-E period of Japanese art.
The piece “Unmentionables” has different faces, all expressions of surprise, serenity, wonder, and ecstasy. On the back of the piece there are hidden hand cut flowers, roller printed leaf patterns, and scenes of paired lovers. Ukiyo-E, or images of the floating world, were representations of the everyday life of Japan in the 16th through the 19th centuries. This piece brings together my own interest in the expressive power of faces, while exploring the serenity and grace of the everyday in my own time.
” As a Chinese Brush Artist, Andrea Allen has developed a unique style that combines the traditions of the Chinese Masters with a subtle, contemporary flair. She studied with a Chinese master for six years and has been painting in this ancient style for over three decades.
Allen utilizes many ancient Chinese techniques such as grinding her own Sumi Ink, often mixing it with watercolor, loading the calligraphy brush, and applying it to handmade rice paper, with a minimal number of strokes to complete each painting. She carefully balances the painted and unpainted spaces in each composition, creating a tranquil flow throughout each painting. Ancient Chinese symbolism and philosophy influence her work, enhancing the feeling of vital energy and serenity. The inherent effect is for the viewer to be effortlessly invited into each painting, to experience a peaceful balance and harmony in a timeless continuum.
Allen has exhibited extensively throughout the Bay Area, Marin County and the Mendocino coast. She also has collectors throughout the United States and Asia. She also teaches classes for beginning and experienced students. She welcomes creating custom paintings upon request.
