Susan Hillson

BIO

Susan B. Hillson has been designing jewelry for more than twenty years. She is largely self-taught and specializes in her signature wire-wrapping technique. Her statement pieces feature gemstones, precious and semi-precious wire, polymer clay, Tahitian pearls, lampwork glass, and imprinted artisan copper. Every season, she incorporates components from various artisans, to keep her Signature Designs Online collection evolving. “With the simplicity of today’s lifestyle, I have concentrated on earrings that go with everything from jeans and business casual, to the elegant styles so many of us love.”  In addition to earrings, the collection includes statement necklaces, and bracelets. 

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

“I am inspired and infused by the color and textures around me, from my travels, from exposure to fashions and interior colors, patterns, and styles. This carries over to my work in jewelry design. Many of my designs are architectural in nature and have angular lines that are uplifting, where other pieces are very organic. By incorporating a wide range of metals, stones, hand blown glass, polymer, and clay, the collection maintains a heartbeat all its own. Each piece of jewelry is individually designed on my worktable, bringing together unique materials. Construction is done by hand, and finished with wire-wrapping, or artisan clasps.”

Exhibits

Ms. Hillson has exhibited at the McLean Jewelry Showcase, 2011-2013, Artistic Artifacts, Alexandria; Poretz Jewish Community Center Art Gallery, Fairfax; Women’s Club of Vienna Jewelry Show and Holiday Market, Vienna, Virginia; Women’s Club of Loudon County Holiday Show, Leesburg, Virginia; Falls Church Arts in Falls Church, Virginia; and the Pop-Up Art Show at Dolce Vita in Fairfax, Virginia; Outsiders Only at the Grounds of Liven, Oakton, Virginia; and the Studios at 307, Falls Church, Virginia. She also sponsors an annual home show that includes several artists.