These knuckles were an amazing collaboration with Samuel Skeist. Sam is a great artist in the mediums of life, philosophy and poetry. This ring was born in our first conversation. Sams idea for jade knuckles quickly developed into a great art project. We both remembered early bboy days when the likes of Big daddy Kane, Biz Markie and Eric b and Rakim where rockin some wicked finger jewelry.
The graffiti-ized Hebrew script on the top reads "Neshama". It is the third part of the soul, the breath of the soul. It is the part that lives on after the rest pass away.
I had to develop, or invent for myself a few different techniques of carving in this project. This for me as an artist is one of my favorite challenges, "how am I gonna do this?" "I've never done this before"... but it always then when those doors of wonder open that your mind feels of galactic proportions, swirling with new applications, ideas and inspirations. Thats the joy.
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The first time I met Brian I sensed the genuine passion and enthusiasm he has for his craft of jade carving and design. I had long had an idea for a unique sort of multiple finger ring and decribed my idea to Brian. We brainstormed together. He explained to me the wide variety of carving, sculpting, sanding and design techniques he could apply and I instantly commissoned him to create this special piece for me. The image in my mind was a three finger ring with hebrew lettering across the ring's face. I came up with a variety of sketches for the lettering and Bryan gave me his artistic input about how to best make my vision come to life. When I saw the final result I was amazed! The finished ring was far beyond my expectations (which were quite high). I would recommend Brian as a master craftsman and carver to anyone interested in the art of stone work. His knowledge of and zest for jade carving is truly remarkable. I am now the proud owner of a fantastic piece of art and the coolest ring ever!
