Meet Irene Blueth, a self-taught jeweler who has been creating silver and gold pieces her entire adult life. After arriving on the West Coast with just three pairs of pliers and some wire, she’s spent the last 40 years on Cortes Island, building a beautiful studio and a lifetime of craftsmanship.

Now semi-retired, Irene is making a rare appearance at both local craft fairs — a special chance to see her work in person.

Working with metal is what grounds her. Whether casting seed pods spotted on a forest walk or transforming bits of seaweed found along the shoreline, Irene’s jewelry is rooted in nature. Some pieces become art; others return to the melting pot to be reborn. Alongside these organic castings, she also creates with wire, sheet, and gemstones, bringing her artistic vision to life in many forms.

Follow Irene’s work on Instagram: silvercedar
(Instagram.com/silvercedar)