Tess Davis
Deux, 2020

solid sterling silver with a liver-of-sulfur patina finish
7”Diameter

ARTwork statement:

This piece is a nod to my timeless connection with my grandmother, Tuyet. Our relationship is deep, complex, and our lives strongly interwoven. Even after her death, I find myself aligning with her legacy; sometimes deliberately, more often unconsciously. “Deux” is a manifestation of that perpetual bond. The serpent symbolizes themes also present in our dynamic -- creativity, healing, transformation-- themes I’ve learned and continue to learn from her. Each hand fabricated chain link, bound together with solder and silver, signifying the power yielded through solidarity & community connectedness. The double headed sterling silver serpent serves as the conduit to the themes of creativity, healing, transformation, and the alchemy that comes as a result of blending them with community and human connection.

ARTIST BIO:

Originally from Northern Utah, Tess moved to San Francisco in 2009 to attend college at the University of San Francisco. With a background in community organizing, social work, and fundraising, she seeks to find the intersection between her artistic practice and community empowerment. Tess’s work is made to evoke a sense of protection, power, and connection within its wearer. Each piece of metal is thoughtfully sculpted to serve as a unique amulet, marking the life experiences that led to its creation.