Collection Overview

Curator's Statement

Gayle Thorsen creates spectacular, over-the-top, jewelry. She integrates a multitude of influences with as many materials, blending them skillfully, assembling works of exquisite beauty and visual impact. Wearing a Thorsen creation guarantees a woman "making an impression" at a party or gathering. This is not to say that Thorsen ignores those who would appreciate a more subtle or restrained piece of jewelry to accent their ensembles - pieces that work in harmony and partnership with their dresses or suits. The artist has much to offer them. However - it's the pull-out-all-the-stops works where the artist really shines. Working in either stylistic mode - Gayle Thorsen's mastery of her medium, coupled with a keen theatrical sense - offers anyone wearing her creations the potential for turning any event into a celebration.
Quoting the artist's statements:
"Making jewelry started out as a very personal thing; I made pieces that delighted me and that I wanted to keep. Then one day I realized that I had 3 million pieces and only one neck and two wrists--time to start selling!"
"I love color and texture, especially in interesting combinations. My work incorporates cultural influences from all over the world--India, China, Europe, Asia--and from many periods of history."
"My recent pieces are bold, complex, and baroque, and celebrate the interplay of cultured pearls, gemstones, glass, and metals. (I think I'm channeling a Czarina, Elizabeth R, and one of the Sultan's wives all at once.) I also like necklaces that are multifunctional: many of mine are quite long but also can be worn double looped around the neck."

--James Michael Lawrence

Related Links

Gayle Thorsen on mnartists.org
Link to Gayle's homepage for more information about the artist and to view other creations in her gallery.

Gayle Thorsen's work online at Etsy Shop
View Gayle's creations and shop online at Etsy Shop.

Gayle Thorsen's Jewelry At LaRue's Fine Clothing
Shop LaRue's Fine Clothing in Southwest Minneapolis for jewelry by Gayle Thorsen. Visit their homepage at: www.larues.com for store hours and calendar of events.

Collection

Collection Classification

Wearable