My love for jewelry making took root when I was 12 years old. Visiting home from overseas I stayed with a friend who gave me seed beads and elastic string to pass a slow afternoon. Instantly I was addicted.

My family moved frequently to new countries. Everywhere we went, I saw new forms of body ornamentation and marveled at the idea of wearable art. With the simple gift of beads, the world of adornment was opened up to me; and I sought every opportunity to expand that world. Using my allowance I purchased handmade glass beads at a small shop in town. I found a beading magazine and taught myself new techniques. I collected pebbles and sea glass and attempted to work them into new designs.

Finally there was a form of art that would move with me no matter where my family ended up. Drawing inspiration from all around, the jewelry I made and wore began to tell the story of my life.

Today I create work with the hopes that it will add to the lives of those who wear it. My style is eclectic and at times unusual, but it highlights the imperfect beauty of nature and responds to the materials that form each piece.

— Odette Channell