This Indigenous Jeweler Finds Beauty—and Meaning—in Copper

The artist’s most recent collection—showcased at the Yaamava Fashion Daze fashion show in Southern California in April, and photographed by Jasper Soloff—took influence from the beautiful natural landscapes she grew up around in Alaska. “I drew inspiration from ovoids, the base design shape of Tlingit formline design,” says Younger. “Looking back takes me forward: I look back at traditional design, and try to envision new variations that will appeal to a younger generation. It’s all about carrying the art form on.” The collection includes elegant dangly earrings and chunkier statement necklaces, all fashioned out of her signature silvers and coppers. “One of my favorites is the large copper chest piece,” says Younger. “It’s shaped copper over the collarbone with formline design shapes hanging down the front, engraved with wild roses. I like the juxtaposition of the bold piece and shapes with the soft floral.”

Of course, for Younger, the use of silver and copper holds a deeper meaning beyond just how it looks. For the artist, using these materials is a way to carry on her lineage—utilizing the same materials her ancestors have for centuries—and gives wearers a special set of qualities as well. “As I learned more about the copper and its deeper history to my community, I leaned in on that,” says Younger. “The copper represents stature, strength, supernatural power, and protection.” She also sees a sense of power in using these traditional materials in a modern context—especially as there was a time when her elders were prevented from doing so by colonizers. “I want to honor my grandmother, who was not allowed to practice her culture,” says Younger. 

Younger is one of many other new contemporary artists bringing traditional craft into the present. The artist says she’s inspired by seeing this movement occur across the Indigenous arts community. “In over the 10 years that I’ve been engraving and doing metal arts, I’ve seen so much more exposure of authentic Indigenous art,” says Younger. “I love to see our community getting recognition, and I hope it continues to empower the next generations.” In the mean time, Younger will be busy creating even more handmade works to adorn yourself with. “I’m continuing to dream up new statement pieces for shows in the fall, while I do custom orders,” says Younger. “My happy place is my workshop. This August, you can also find me at the Sovereign Santa Fe market. Come see me there!”