Is Okanagan jewelry design and creation craft, artisan or high art?
It depends on the maker. Being a lifelong fan and part-time maker of jewelry, I became fascinated with jewelry designers and creators in the Okanagan and the question arose: Do people know or care about the difference between those who just string beads together, sell it – or, holy hematite – approach it like high artistry? Believe me, I’ve found some amusing classic and eclectic costume pieces at the dollar stores (most of which I have unstrung for the beads), but I’ve also invested in a collection of one-of-a-kinds by the jewelry designer/makers I consider artists. Just the thrill of owning one of these amazing wearables, even if it’s more studied than adorned, is as ecstatic as possessing a remarkable original painting. I paid a good part of my university tuition at UBC by crafting elaborate, beaded wire and chain necklaces and selling them in the Student Union shop. The fascination with creating custom body-adornment was inherited from my father, Leon Kraintz, a professor whose hob
