Mary Ellen Merrigan

For years embroidery, weaving, crewel work, crochet, dressmaking and needlepoint were creative outlets for me. Now I frame my life perspective like a section of handmade chain. Each link contributes to the whole.

I developed a relationship with handmade chain in 2016 when I decided to make my own findings for my beaded necklaces. Ask me about the happy torch accident led to creative immersion with metal collage.

The pounding and forming of each chain link is mesmerizing, adding individual expression and intentionality to my artistry.  My work indulges a metal mix of sterling silver and red brass, which turns a beautiful copper when fired. A juxtaposition of wire, backplate, distinctive beads and stones like pyrite, rhodonite and Herkimer diamonds call out my inner artist. Adventure resonates with playful expression.

Chain and metal collage represent strength, depth and perseverance in my unique jewelry designs. My intention is that chain and chain links reflect substance to wearers so that each customer feels validated individually with my signature pieces. Forged detail, sometimes with imperfections, honors individuality.

No surprise. Nothing about me or my life is easily defined. Artist. Independent. Farmer’s daughter. Oldest child, the one with curly hair.

I built a career in the implausible world of selling air. My years of experience in the competitive world of broadcast advertising launched a consulting practice that emphasized public relations and social media.

I graduated from Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville Missouri with a B.A. in Speech, with an emphasis on Radio/Television. Because my career focused on challenge, i used needlepoint, embroidery, dressmaking and crochet for relaxation, until beads called out my soul in 2007.

In addition, my passion for giving back led to the discovery of Pursonalities Plus ABQ, a 501-c-3, which supplies gently used purses filled with new toiletries to women in recovery programs. Since 2016, I have led a quest to add a set of jewelry in the form of gently used bracelet, necklace, and earrings to these gifts.

For the past 15 years, in addition to Pursonalities Plus ABQ, I have been actively involved with Sandia Heights Artists, an annual September studio tour.  Additionally, my jewelry is on display at Amapola Gallery, an artist cooperative, in Old Town Albuquerque.