It’s well known around the Plateau that the most excitingfine arts, jewelry, craft and décor is to be found at Acorns,Old Edwards store. In September the works of two talentedartisans are featured – jewelry from Erin Gray and glass treesfrom Simon Pearce.From September 2 through 4, a representative of jewelrydesigner, Erin Gray, will be in store to welcome customers andshowcase new styles.Fifteen years into a corporate marketing career, Erin Gray’smother and stepmother were diagnosed with pancreatic cancerwithin a year of each other. The pain inspired her to make achange in her life and make a difference in the lives of oth-ers.After hitting the drawing board, and researching the fashionindustry, Erin Gray Design was born—a line ofnature-inspiredneutrals and stylish pieces that are finished but not fussy, with aunique boho/free spirit feel. From leather chokers to gemstonestack bracelets, her high-quality pieces are sustainably andethically produced. You’ll find yourself wanting everything! Thecompany dedicates monthly contributions to childhood cancerpatients through the Atlanta charity, Cure.On display the week of September 9 through 16 are the glasstrees of Simon Pearce.He’s America’s most prominent glass blower and has producedand sold his wares in Vermont since 1981. Pearce was runninga workshop in Ireland when escalating power costs encouragedhim to leave, in search of his own hydroelectric power. Hefound it at his flagship location in Quechee and began produc-ing the glass for which he is so well known—clear, strong, andproudly hand-blown, with no two pieces exactly alike.He believes in glass that has character, and designs thatbring pleasure, and that,“simplicity, quality, and artisanshipare tenets of a better way of life.” His works have beengiven as gifts to foreign dignitaries and to presenters at theAcademy Awards.Highly coveted among the glassblower’s iconic pieces are hissignature glass trees. The trees, brilliantly clear or dusted withsnow, wrapped, dappled or silvered, come in many forms andare a joy to collect, to give and to use. They are also a fulfill-ment of Pearce’s promise that, “If you buy something and livewith it, and in 20 years enjoy it as much as the day you boughtit, that is the sign of something that really works.”Visitacornshighlandsnc.com to learn more about these andfuture happenings.
by Marlene Osteen
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