Welcome to The Beautiful Dead.
The jewellery, curios, accessories and art you will find here have been created with parts of deceased animals. I use bone, fur, pelts, teeth, claws, wings, feet, shells, exoskeletons, etc. to create what I like to think of as “spirit animal” pieces. I believe that some small part of the soul or spirit will forever cling to its earthen remains and that by wearing or keeping these pieces, we can invoke qualities of these animals into our lives at times when we most need them. For example, a black bear claw necklace tucked beneath your shirt or proudly displayed might provide strength, courage and confidence for a job interview. An alligator tooth loaded with herbs and dressed with oils in your pocket will give luck when gambling or dealing with finances. Or a wolf tail hanging from your rearview mirror will protect you on your journey.
As was mentioned in my little biography to the right, no animals are ever harmed specifically for my art. Ethically sourced is a broad term that means something different to everyone who uses it, so I won’t claim that these items are all ethically sourced because that may not mean the same thing to you as it does to me. Some of the bones and animal parts I use are found in nature from deaths that may have been natural or caused by predators or vehicles, while others are purchased from hunters, trappers, taxidermists or fellow collectors. I try to make use of what would normally be wasted or thrown away. I do not support poaching, illegal hunting or the mistreatment of animals that might occur at unregulated fur farms or slaughterhouses.
There are also special laws in Canada that protect wildlife. Did you know that keeping a feather from a blue jay or cardinal is in violation of certain federal laws? Raptors (hawks, eagles, owls) are protected as well. This is why you will rarely see any bird parts being used in my art. These regulations will vary depending on which province or territory you live in, so when in doubt about what animal parts you can and cannot possess, it’s always best to contact your local wildlife enforcement office.
Some of the materials I use come from animals that are still living. I keep a various species of tarantulas and their molted skins and fangs are frequently included in shadow boxes or jewellery pieces. I also have access to shed python, boa and colubrid skins which I use for pendants and curio sets. While I do find beauty in death, I also love to honour the living creatures which I share my life with.
And on those very rare occasions when I might use human bones in my art, know that these are completely legal to buy, sell and own in Canada and have been sourced mainly from retired teaching skeletons or archaeological specimens.
Overall, it is my hope that the pieces I create will cause people to look at the natural world in a completely different way and develop a sense of respect for the creatures that we share the earth with. Take something home with you and research the animal that it came from. Carry it with you and invite the unique spirit that dwells within it into your life.