Metalsmith and Jewelry designer Ayala Naphtali draws inspiration from
ancient alphanumeric systems, contemporary architecture and her own personal,
cultural history. She is intrigued with balance and proportion and feels that each
of her pieces must find its axis on the body. She creates work with elegance and
minimal, bold forms, precious metals and alternative materials. Her work is an
exploration of form and materials and feels as if each piece must find its axis on
the wearer. She feels firmly rooted in the historical tradition of her craft. Ayala
is committed to the use of materials, for their color texture and versatility. Ayala
Naphtali studied Gold and Silversmithing at FIT and SUNY NEW PALTZ (BFA in ’85), but
first started making jewelry in her early teens. She her award-winning work has been
exhibited nationally and internationally in galleries and museums, has been
collected privately, and by major museums including the Cooper Hewitt and
Kunsindustriumuseum in Norway, and The White House permanent collection. Ayala
exhibits in major nationally juries craft shows including American Craft Exposition
in Baltimore, SOFA show (Chicago) and local NY area venues. Selected publications
include American Craft Magazine, ELLE, The Fashions of The Times, The New York
Times, Mademoiselle, Women’s Wear Daily, Glamour, and New Women Magazine. Ayala has
been a juror for The American Craft Council Craft Shows.
