Two local women debut their jewelry book at BAYarts

Eva Sherman and Beth Martin show off their chunky cuffs.

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Beth Martin and Eva Sherman are two Northeastern Ohio jewelry artists who have just published their first book. It is titled "Organic Wire and Metal Jewelry: Stunning Pieces Made with Sea Glass, Stones, and Crystals."

Longtime friends who first met at Sherman's Lakewood store, Grand River Bead Studio, the pair knew that they wanted their book to talk about sea glass.

"Originally our concept was to write a book about the history of sea glass from Lake Erie, but after a few discussions, we thought there was a need for a book about sea glass as a jewelry design component. We wanted to bring sea glass lovers and jewelry designers together. Between the two of us, we had tons of ideas on how to incorporate sea glass into jewelry, and once we found a publisher, we narrowed our selections to our top 25 and began writing. Conceptualizing was the easy part, writing and documenting each project took a bit more time."

Martin says organic wire techniques came into play because it complimented the sea glass well, as well as being "a creative style that appealed to [us]." Both artists bring different design aesthetics and approaches to their shared work. While Martin favors simple wire work with pearls and crystals, Eva brings in the layers of metal and torches.

The duo will be available at a book signing at BAYarts on Friday, March 21, from 6-9 p.m. There will also be an adjoining trunk show to view the work in person. As for why they decided to debut their book at the BAYarts campus, Martin says it was a no-brainer.

"Last year we both contracted as instructors with BAYarts. We [mentioned] that were in the process of writing a book about sea glass jewelry. With it being right on the lake, it seemed like a natural fit. BAYarts is a unique creative arts center, and the various classes offered from preschool on up, are a perfect complement to a how to book on designing jewelry."

The book is available for purchase at Amazon, Kalmbach Books and Barnes & Noble. Check bayarts.net for details on upcoming workshops taught by Martin and Sherman.