I am a third generation Japanese American (Sansei). Many aspects of my everyday existence, from my spirit, style, home, and art express a deep appreciation for the beauty of Japanese design. I treasure the history and artisanal qualities of vintage and contemporary Japanese fabrics, such as shibori and kasuri. Incorporating fabrics in my jewelry is what makes them unique. Most recently I have been excited about creating ceramic beads in the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi. I combine Raku firing, an ancient Japanese ceramics technique, with different glazing methods to make artistically imperfect beads. Following the Buddhist view of existence: Both life and art are beautiful not because they are perfect and eternal, but because they are imperfect and fleeting.

​

I grew up in Sacramento, CA and moved to Los Angeles in the early 70’s. My initial major in college was art, but I decided to pursue a degree and career in education. I worked many fulfilling years in higher education. Now, I enjoy designing and creating jewelry, and most recently pottery, which allows me to unleash my creative side and share my love of color and texture, and Japanese design.

​

Enjoy!

Susan Oda Omori

​