Jody Ochs
Metalsmith sculpturegrl@gmail.com jodyochsdesign.com instagram.com/jodyochsdesign facebook.com/jodyochsdesignA Minnesota native, I began designing and creating jewelry in 1994 by wrapping raw gemstones in gold and silver wire. Progression from there was to learn lapidary (carving stones), and onto smithing – metal fabrication.
Much of my work includes spiculums; hollow acicular forms, using both synclast and anticlast forming, creating fluid 3-dimensional organic results.
My jewelry path is a synthesis of my life and inner spiritual journey. Growing up in the military, I have lived in many places, including Japan and Germany, and traveled most of Europe. The influences of these cultures are intrinsic in my work. In 1997, a yearning to take my journey to a more peaceful, quiet lifestyle, prompted my move from the inner city of Minneapolis to the pristine mountains of North Carolina whereI lived for 20 years.
Currently, I spend winters in Florida and summers in Minnesota so I can spend more time with my son. My tools are always with me, to both make and teach. My hobbies include walking in nature, kayaking, fishing and gardening, with an emphasis on regenerative agriculture.
I HAVE BEEN A MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS:
Minnesota Craft Council American Craft Council
Southern Highland Craft Guild Carolina Designer Crafstman
Piedmont Craftsman Guild Florida Society of Goldsmiths
SELECT AWARDS OF DISTINCTION AND EXHIBITIONS
Best of Show – 2002 – Telfair Museum of Art
Finalist Saul Bell Competition 2003 – Silver Category
Award of Excellence – Piedmont Craftsman Show 2021
Farm to Table – American Silver 2014 – Tulip Flatware