Diane Castillo -
I am originally from Belen, NM, received my B.A. from the University of NM, and my Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Iowa. I practiced in the VA system and throughout my career, I took art classes as a way to balance my life. My wirework jewelry combines a blend of intricate wire weaving patterns and the use of stones to either center stage or complement each original jewelry design. Some wire pieces consist solely of wire weave patterns, while others use crystals, pearls, gemstones (e.g., turquoise), and glass seed beads to accent the piece. My work is clearly influenced by my Hispanic heritage and New Mexican origins, as well as by my training in a variety of mediums (pencil, charcoal, ink wash, water colors, clay). The resulting pieces are distinctly southwestern in character, such as the Multicolored Wire Weave Cross and the Sugar Skull. I have enjoyed teaching classes in wire weaving and have been honored to have won awards for some designs.
