Artist, Jason Janow
Since its opening in 2004, Weaverville’s Miya Gallery has been home to many of the artists and artisans that represent Western North Carolina’s rich heritage. This year, the gallery will host a special Holiday Trunk Show that showcases some of the region’s unique talent with an exhibit featuring the work of jeweler and metalsmith Jason Janow.
Dedication to all things artisan is an interest shared by Janow and Miya Gallery. “Creating jewelry is a passion for me,” says Janow. “And being represented by exceptional galleries such as Miya gives me the opportunity to display my jewelry for people who love nature and want to wear it.”
As both his signature and newer pieces demonstrate, Janow’s work is tied to his own love of nature. Created from items such as found riverstones, cast silver twigs, textured tree bark and gemstones, Janow’s styles range from brilliantly colorful to more sedate, but always reflect the natural elements of his environment.
“I believe in the early arts and crafts philosophy that crafts makers should use materials that are local and familiar to them,” says Janow. “When I leave a trout stream, my pockets are often filled with such treasures as river stones and twigs. Back at my studio, these materials come together with precious metals and gems to form designs that I love.”
Janow’s collection of work will be on display and for sale throughout the month, but be sure to catch the show’s opening reception on Friday, December 16, from 5–8 p.m. You can talk with Janow about his work, grab a few special small-batch brews from Weaverville’s local Zebulon Artisan Brewery and purchase your favorite pieces as gifts—or even for yourself.
Miya Gallery is located at 20 North Main Street in Weaverville and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. To learn more, visit miyagallery.com or janowmetalsmithing.com.
