Designers' Corner: Karli Sears

Glass sculpture and glass jewelry artist Karli Sears stands next to her lovely creations at the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition this July 2009

Karli Sears

Karli Sears’ lovely glass jewelry took me by surprise at the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition. Karli’s work so beautifully captures the spirit of life, tranquility, and wonder that I wanted to showcase her creations on this post.

Karli describes the delicate-looking bubbles of the Bubble Necklace (pictured above and below) as far more durable than they appear. Clearly reminiscent of playful soap bubbles, their simplicity makes for a fun accessory that easily adapts from a casual summer outfit to your LBD.

She’s no newbie to glass blowing: Karli has worked with glass for 10 years and is now a resident artist at the Living Arts Centre following similar residency at the Harbourfront Craft Studio. Karli’s work draws inspiration from the natural world and her pieces are soft sculptural renditions that are reminiscent of seed pods and ocean anemones. Her recent foray into textiles includes working with glass and felt to create new pieces that can be seen and purchased at Toronto’s Sandra Ainsley Gallery.

"Rosa", from the Gathering collection by Karli Sears

"Pollinaria" from the Microcosm collection by Karli Sears

Karli’s nature-inspired creations also take shape in oversized rings set in sterling silver. I love the Microcosm series’ interest in “the microscopic parts of plant life” which are then enlarged and extracted forms that are rendered art for your home, office, or finger. This is where art meets practicality; what could be better than portable art for “the wearer’s private contemplation”?

Microcosm ring by Karli Sears

Microcosm ring by Karli Sears

All product images courtesy of Karli Sears. Photo of the artist and booth by Fashion in Motion. To see more of Karli Sears’ work and for purchasing inquiries, please visit Karli Sears’ website.