In a new initiative to spotlight the outstanding work of its local artists, New Morning Gallery will highlight two artists each month with videos, special displays and social media posts. To kick things off, the gallery presents Jewels of January, on display throughout the month and featuring the work of jewelry artists Jovita Schneider and Julie Simon.
“Featuring local artists isn’t just something we do; it’s part of who we are,” says gallery director Sarah Marshall. “New Morning Gallery has spent decades building long-term, personal relationships with makers across Western North Carolina. These aren’t transactional connections; they’re built on trust, shared history and a real understanding of each artist’s voice.”
For Jovita Schneider, creating art had always been something she did for herself, never giving a thought to selling her creations to others. “COVID-19 actually gave me an opportunity to find something very enjoyable to do,” she says. “That is when I started to make little jewelry out of beads as gifts for friends and family. I loved to work with beads so much that I didn’t even notice when I had too many pieces.” In 2021, New Morning Gallery began to display her work.
Julie Simon’s jewelry pieces blend sculptural design with natural stones and intricate metalwork for a soulful and timeless, yet personal, look. Both artists were chosen for work that has exhibits freshness while at the same time reflecting Western North Carolina’s creative spirit.
“With jewelry especially, the work is intimate—it’s worn close, chosen with care—and that sense of closeness mirrors our relationship with the artists who create it,” Marshall says. “Showcasing their work gives visitors a chance to experience the richness of our region’s craft community, and it gives artists meaningful visibility and support. It’s a way for everyone to feel connected.”…