Artist Statement
As a born forager, I find joy in exploring the outdoors, connecting with the raw and natural materials that reveal themselves to me. Then, I am inspired.”
Garling’s work draws inspiration from diverse geographic contexts: the urban landscapes of New York City, with its hard edges and shiny surfaces, the softer naturescape of her native home, the Pacific Northwest, and the unique textures and rawness of Alaska.
Her stylings reflect a clear eye and passion for the raw and tangible, fusing her artistry with the natural world, distinctly and beautifully.
About Elyse
After living in NYC for 15 years I have returned to my home of the Pacific Northwest. During my time on the East Coast I studied jewelry design at The Fashion Institute of Technology and took classes from a European trained goldsmith for over ten years, high in the steeple of Riverside Church. As a child I spent time with family in Southeast Alaska where we found semi-precious stones in their natural environments and developed awe and a strong love for the great wilds, foraging and discovery. It's an honor, returning to Alaska where I take part in harvesting sockeye salmon in Bristol Bay, for their epic annual run.
When I'm not commercial fishing or creating small adornments for appreciative people, I work on boat fabrication and modification in my home port, fitting and some welding. The metal work spectrum is broad in both material and scope. From teeny diamonds flush set in sterling or gold to 3 story aluminum catamaran superstructures and sponsoning commercial fishing vessels. A catalyst is inspiration through creation and learning, and am fortunate enough to incorporate both in my daily life.