Artist Statement

My interest in sustainable jewelry motivated me to research bioplastics as a main material to create unique wearable pieces.

Bioplastics and biocompounds are made from biodegradable materials produced from renewable sources. They are known for their strength and sustainable properties; they are also being used in many disciplines to replace the use of fossil-fuel plastics. The process of making allowed me to incorporate native flowers, fruits, and vegetables for texturing and coloring. The material also lets me achieve organic flexible forms or structured sharp shapes.

The beauty of bioplastics is that through their versatility and properties, I am able to describe and explore my home country's, Argentina, diverse ecosystem as well as representing Patagonia's landscapes and skies' color palette.

Biography

Lara Sturzenbaum, born in Río Gallegos, Patagonia, Argentina, immersed herself in the world of jewellery from a young age, initiating her journey with beading craftsmanship at the age of twelve. Over the years, she refined her skills by incorporating semi-precious stones and precious metals. In 2010, she founded her brand, Malercas. Her artistic journey led her to Halifax, Canada, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, specializing in Jewellery Design and Metalsmithing in 2022.

Inspired by the majesty of the Patagonian region, she blends traditional jewellery techniques with unconventional materials, such as naturally dyed biomaterials. Lara has exhibited her work in various art galleries across Canada and is currently part of the Nocturne Noisemakers 2024 program. In addition to her artistic practice, she shares her knowledge internationally by teaching online classes in jewellery and sketchbook techniques to schools in Argentina, Spain, and soon, the United States.