Janice

I'm originally from the Philippines, I came here when I was 7 years old, America was a new world to me. I was always told growing up, America is where dreams are made. No matter where I was, I always held my grandma near my heart. She was a seamstress and a really great one too. She could look at an outfit just by glance and replicate it. I used to watch her sketch, form, sew and finish beautiful dresses. I shadowed her morning, day, and night as she lost herself in her projects. I never understood how, but once she was done, it was magic! She was like the fairy Godmother in Cinderella, she be-be-di-ba-ba-de bo! I tried to pick up fabrics and sew for a long time. It never clicked in me, until I found the connection that brought me back to my grandmother, which was when I picked up 2 sets of pliers and started connecting small little tiny jump rings together. I connected and connected and I made a sheet, from that sheet I turned it into an outfit. In discovering this form of art, I found myself the person I lost for years with each chain I linked together! I felt lost for a long time and building my jewelry and outfits brought my soul back into life. It gave me a purpose and a talent I want to share with you. Why XIXEIGHTYSIX was created. The reason behind XIXEIGHTYSIX, aside from the fact this is the year I was born, I always share this year with my best friend, the air to my lungs, and the right side of my heart. This was the year that brought him into this world to be with me. He is my inspiration and the oxygen to my fire. Each of my pieces are presented in a beautiful handmade wooden box, because my pieces are not just jewelry you wear, but a beautiful piece of artisan history wrapped up with new flare and my gift to you.