Kristi
Wax Carver
I’ve been with Green Lake Jewelry Works since 2004, primarily working as a wax carver, though I also enjoy doing occasional design work. One aesthetic I’m especially drawn to is carving natural forms - whether it’s flora, fauna, landscapes, or people. I studied design at the University of Washington and have been fortunate to learn from some incredible sculptors and artists. Some of my own work is even part of the permanent collection at the Tacoma Art Museum.
I credit a childhood movie moment for sparking my love of jewelry - watching Journey to the Center of the Earth and seeing Pat Boone slide into a cave surrounded by glittering jewels left a big impression on me. A few years later, I moved to Norway and was introduced to amazing Scandinavian designers like Georg Jensen and David Andersen.
Growing up in a family of artists, I developed an early appreciation for art and craft. My Norwegian grandfather filled his home with his “primitive” style landscapes, wood carvings, and decorative painted pieces. My mother was an art teacher, and my sister is a fantastic painter, so it was no surprise that I pursued a creative path.
I began as a ceramics student at the University of Washington, but couldn’t quite picture life as a hippie potter, so I switched to jewelry and metal design. I was lucky to study under inspirational teachers like Ramona Solberg and John Marshall.
My career started with repair and production work, then moved into designing and constructing prototypes for a large national wholesale manufacturer. After about 20 years, that division was outsourced - a tough reality in the U.S. jewelry industry. Luckily, I found Green Lake and have loved working on a variety of exciting custom designs ever since.
Outside my ‘day job,’ I’m active in local street fairs and private sales, creating unusual jewelry from broken pottery, antique buttons, and more. When I’m not creating, you’ll find me skiing or hiking - two of my favorite ways to enjoy living in what I think is the perfect city. And yes, I really do like the rain!
Sample of Kristi's portfolio | Custom designs, work and favorite projects