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Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNDickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TN

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Jai Johnson

 

Ladybug's Mum
2"x1.75" ~Art Pendant
$60

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

This charming rendition of a ladybug paired with a vibrant fall mum is sure to delight! This art pendant features a red glass ladybug bead dangling from the petal of the mum. Gold leaf adorns the design for added richness and sparkle. Shown on a black rubber necklace cord (not included).

 

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Jai Johnson ~ Hand Sculpted Jewelry ~ The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Jackson, TNHometown:
Jackson, TN

Medium:
Fine Art Jewelry

Artist Statement:
In the center of Tennessee, in a quaint, natural-lit studio filled with inspiring, upbeat music, and a wonderful view of the flowers and birds, artist Jai Johnson creates art jewelry heirlooms from polymer clay. Using a wide range of miniaturist tools and her imagination, she hand-fashions her original art jewelry and also tiny paintings, from the abstract to the realistic, the natural to the unnatural, and the delicate to the divine.

Each jewel and miniature painting is one-of-a-kind: named and signed by the artist. Jai prefers the translucent shade of polymer for its firm texture and vitreous appearance, which enable the flat designs with a look of stained glass when placed in front of light.

After she shapes the base clay, Jai carves her design into the raw material with her hand tools, giving each jewel, ornament and miniature painting a personality of its own. She begins with a base of artist chalk colors applied to the raw clay—colors which will add complimentary undertones to the design. The jewel is then fired for the first time. Sometimes she stops here, if the softness of the artist chalks provide her with the look she wants, but if she wants more vibrancy, and more bold color, she continues nurturing the piece, enticing it along to match the vision in her mind.

Continuing on, she mixes liquid clay with artist chalk pastels to make the colorful glazes for the rest of the design. Each layer of glaze is meticulously applied, one layer at a time, with multiple oven-firings in between. She lets her imagination, her tools, and the clay work together to produce the fluid movement, electric coloring and fine artistic craftsmanship that are the hallmarks of these highly collectible works of art.

Additional elements, if used, are added both during and after painting. Jewelry findings used include 14K gold filled metals and brass. Liquid gold and gold leaf are also applied to many pieces. The jewelry, ornaments and miniature paintings are then oven annealed for a final time, and glazed for lifelong protection from the elements. A single bead or pendant can foster an investment of as much as 24-48 hours of time. All creations are signed by the artist with her official stamp embedded into the design itself, and each miniature work of art comes with a 5.5" x 8" full color, hand-signed art card, featuring the individual work as the focal point.

Today, Jai's colorful art jewels have become collectors' favorites for their originality, bright, bold colors, and sense of movement. Own one of these jewels and it, like the jewels of the past, will add that extra-special something to a jewelry collection for many generations to come.

Artist Website:
www.michelejanine.com
 


Iris in the Snow
2"x 1" ~Art Pendant
Designer Art "Cloisonne Enamel" Pendant
$75 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Imagine an Iris, its petals full of rich purple sheen while its center glows bright with golden hues, bursting forth through the pearly, pale blue wisps of winter wonderland. Add a dash of green and a square cut amethyst rhinestone embedded in the design, and you have a piece of floral jewelry offering true elegance in its unique, artistic form. Iris in the Snow is made using a cloisonne enamel technique with brass wire and matching bail adorned with two ivory glass simulated pearls. Signed Jai on the back of the polymer pendant, this will make a superb addition to any jewelry collection!


Diamond Cross
2 1/2"x 1 1/4" ~Art Pendant
Designer Art "Cloisonne Enamel" Pendant
$85 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

 

This colorful diamond-shaped cross pendant features a mix of spring green, turquoise blue, and fiery red and yellow, cloisonne set on a black background for a dramatic look. Framed in brass spirals and wire, this pendant will look fabulous on any chain or jewelry cord, from choker to longer lengths. Signed Jai.


The Master's Garden
1 1/4"x 3/4" ~Art Pendant
Designer Art Pendant
$60
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

All the colors of Monet's garden are present here in this amazing art pendant! Filled with red, orange, yellow, many greens and blues and a touch of deep purple, this colorful and luminous pendant accented with genuine gold leaf and rare ivory vintage simulated seed pearls is a jewel which will blend with any attire seamlessly. The brass hand-fashioned setting offers uniqueness and individuality in an elegant and rich fashion. Signed with the official Jai stamp on the back of the art cabochon.


Nature's Web
1"x 5/8" ~Art Pendant
Designer Art Pendant
$45
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

In the Nature's Web pendant, you'll uncover vivid green and sensuous turquoise blue in a free form brass wire setting adorned with four refreshing freshwater pearls. A striking design for day or evening, in a smaller size for those who like the demure, subtle look of a bit of added color! Pendant is signed Jai with the artist's official signature stamp on the back of the art cabochon.


Nature's Web Ring
Ladies 7.25 ~Art Ring
Designer Art Ring
$75 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

In the Nature's Web fine art ring, you'll uncover vivid green and sensuous turquoise blue in a free form brass wire setting adorned with six refreshing freshwater pearls. A striking design for day or evening! Pear shaped pronged setting holds the custom art cabochon by Jai.
Ladies ring size 7.25
Top of ring is 7/8" from top to bottom of setting.


Heart Beat
2 1/2"x 1 1/4" ~Art Pendant
Designer Art Pendant
$95
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Cloisonné is the oldest method of enamelling. First practiced by the ancient Egyptians, cloisonné enamelling has been embraced by many ancient and modern cultures. Here I've replicated the process of cloisonne enamel work in polymer. First, I created a setting, adorned with genuine gold leaf on the edges. Then I've built a network of "cloisons" (cells or compartments) by forming 14K gold filled bezel wire into a pattern for the center of the pendant. Each "cell" was then painted using tinted polymer, filled gradually until I obtained the shading and coloring I wanted, with multiple firings in between layers. A brass bail accented with freshwater pearls is suitable for any chain, jewelry cord, or ribbon.

For this design, I selected rich colors of cobalt blue, several striking shades of amethyst, and a bit of apple green. In the center circle, I've used three shades of red for the "heart" of the pendant. A glass based simulated pearl accents the bottom. Signed Jai with my official signature stamp on the back, this is a piece of jewelry giving the look of cloisonne enamel for an affordable price!


Purple Iris

1 3/4"x 1 3/8" ~Art Pendant
$60
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Experience a powerful sense of tranquility when you gaze upon the gorgeous hues of amethyst springing forth in this Iris blossom floral art pendant. The powerful moment of the flower's full bloom is preserved for a lifetime, offering you a piece of heirloom jewelry you will always treasure. A brass spiral bail will easily hold a favorite chain or jewelry cord.


Blue Iris

1 1/2" round ~Art Pendant
$50
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Appreciate the lasting treasure of the iris in this art pendant, featuring a cobalt blue flower against a citrus orange and yellow background. What a way to brighten your day! This pendant has a brass spiral bail, suitable for a jewelry cord, chain or ribbon.


Cascade

1 3/4"x 1 1/4" ~Art Pendant
$55

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


What a way to add a splash of dramatic COLOR to your wardrobe! CASCADE features deep "blue jean" blue, adorned with reds, yellows, orange, and brilliant greenery. The shield shape of this art jewel will add class and elegance as well.


Reflection

1 1/2"x 1" ~Art Pendant
$60

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Nothing could warm you more on a chilly fall afternoon than the autumn sun setting over the water, offering you hues of orange, red and olive green. Genuine gold leaf make this fall reflection pendant sparkle with a rich elegance. The brass spiral bail will easily hold a chain or jewelry cord.


The Birches

2 3/8"x 1" ~Art Pendant
$65

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


This rich fall pendant offers a scene full of warmth and accented with the cool colors of birch bark. The design refreshes your wardrobe like a mint on your tongue after a warm meal!


Darkness Blooms

2 3/4" long ~Art Pendant
$85

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

This next exciting design in the series adds a touch of the exotic to your wardrobe. The deep orange/red flower explodes from the black background and the addition of light green cools things off just before they get too hot. This is a hinged pendant, with a fascinating new shape boasting a dangle black onyx crystal topped with a sparkling peridot green crystal bead at the bottom.


Behind the Fence

2"x1" ~Art Pendant
$60

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Allow your beauty to emerge from behind the fence when you wear this amazing art pendant, featuring this incredible autumn tree, loaded with oranges and yellows, and tinged with genuine gold leaf in the design.


The Bridge

2"x 2 3/4" ~Art Pendant
$85

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


What a serene and peaceful view we see in this incredible art pendant titled "The Bridge"! Blues, greens and a dash of autumn orange make up this pendant, which has the extra special addition of glass bead dangles. The long bead in the center is a rare vintage bead, dusted with copper, orange and yellow against a cobalt blue background, and tiny cobalt beads to the sides make this a most elegant and fun centerpiece!


Phoenix

2"x 1" ~Art Pendant
$60 ~
SOLD

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Based on the inspiration photo of a Phoenix bird float in an autumn celebration, this awesome pendant offers drama and richness in its design. Greens, oranges and golden yellow are decorated with genuine gold leaf for a sparkle which will carry you from day to night easily and effortlessly.


Elephant Song

1 7/8"x1 1/2" ~Art Pendant
$65 ~
SOLD

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Elephant Song features a wild elephant boldly singing. Deep purple and blue undertones provide unique coloring in this original art. Join in and celebrate the beauty of this wild beast when you add this jewel to your collection! The bail used on this piece serves two purposes, making this collectible art versatile and even more unique. The two rings at the top will hold a favorite chain or jewelry cord, and the art jewel can be worn as a pendant. Alternatively, the rings can be removed and this miniature art can be hung by the brass triangle and displayed as miniature art in your home or office. I am now also taking orders for custom pieces, created in the same fashion as this jewel. Based on a favorite photo of your pet, bird, wild animal, or even flower or special place, I will design a portrait of your favorite subject which you can wear as a pendant or display as miniature art!


Red Hat Society

2 3/4"x1 5/8" ~Art Pendant
$85

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Created in Victorian fashion, I've designed my Red Hat Society Maiden portrait art jewel to reflect the colors of today's popular "Red Hat Society". This brunette wears a large brimmed red hat with a plumage of purple feathers and an off-the-shoulder red dress accented with a deep royal purple stole. The bail I've used serves two purposes, making the collectible art versatile and even more unique. The two rings at the top will hold a favorite chain or jewelry cord, and it can be worn as a pendant. Alternatively, the rings can be removed and this miniature art can be hung by the brass triangle and displayed as a miniature painting in your home or office.


Bluebird in the Holly

1 & 1.5" round ~Art Pendant
$65 ~
SOLD

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

This art jewel features a little bluebird who rested on the holly bush outside my studio window. A bright and cheerful design, this sweet little fella will bring joy anywhere he goes! The bail I've used serves two purposes, making the collectible art versatile and even more unique. The two rings at the top will hold a favorite chain or jewelry cord, and it can be worn as a pendant. Alternatively, the rings can be removed and this miniature art can be hung by the brass triangle and displayed as a miniature painting in your home or office.


Golden Leaves

2.5"x1.18" ~Art Pendant
$55 ~
SOLD
 
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Keep the sense of wonder alive this season when you wear this extraordinary art pendant featuring the golden leaves of fall in a long, flowing, colorful design! Hues of red, orange and yellow are offset with a touch of leaf green and a deep base of purple and black to represent the oncoming evening sky. Genuine gold leaf adds more richness and sparkle to this fascinating design. A brass spiral bail is perfect for a favorite chain, jewelry cord, or ribbon.
 


Dachsund

2"x2.5" ~Art Pendant
$65 ~
SOLD

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

We are now offering the opportunity for you to commission jewelry and miniatures artist Jai Johnson to capture the spirit of your favorite pet, wild animal, flower, or any other subject you desire as a miniature art pendant, which also doubles as a miniature painting! All pendants are created solely from polymer clay - no "paint" is used. Your art jewel will be a lifelong heirloom which will maintain its color and vibrancy in splendid detail. Each art jewel is hand fashioned by the artist and is based on photographs you provide. The custom art jewels are usually round or oval in shape, and range from 2" - 2.75" in size for the largest measurement. Current turnaround time on custom orders is only 5 or 6 days! Your new art jewel featuring your favorite pet, beloved bird, or adored wild animal can be on its way to you in a heartbeat!
Click here to email Jai to get started on your special piece.


Pug

2"x2.5" ~Art Pendant
$65 ~
SOLD

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Another great sample of Jai's Pet portrayals.  Since it was created as a sample, this little beauty is for sale and if you have a Pug of your own...we know you'll enjoy this special piece!

Click here to email Jai to get started on your own special piece.


Merlin

2"x2.5" ~Art Pendant
$65 ~
SOLD

 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

Another great sample of Jai's Pet portrayals.  Since it was created as a sample, this little beauty is for sale and if you have a Merlin of your own...we know you'll enjoy this special piece!

Click here to email Jai to get started on your own special piece.


Wing of the Monarch

2.5"x2" ~Art Pendant
$60
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

Talk about the power of expression...it's definitely present here in this art pendant filled with the stunning colors of the monarch's wing. Gorgeous hues of orange, red and terra cotta are expertly outlined with black and dotted with genuine gold leaf. Pendant has a brass spiral bail, perfect for you to slide a chain, jewelry cord or ribbon through. If you're a butterfly lover, this pendant is sure to express your favorite subject in a new and interesting light!
 


Veined

1.75"x1.5" ~Art Pendant
$50 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

Say hello to more shining moments with VEINED, a sparkling pendant showcasing the inner beauty of an autumn leaf. Red, orange and brilliant, sunny yellow are topped with genuine gold leaf in this fun pendant design. A brass spiral bail above two genuine light topaz crystal beads, offers a unique design, sure to draw the gaze and admiration of many. Shown on black rubber jewelry cord (not included).
 


Peacock Feathers

2.25"x1" ~Art Pendant
$45
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 

The inspiration photo of a showgirl covered in peacock feathers is an actual painting in a window in New Orleans.
 


Colors of Bellagio

2.25"x1" ~Art Pendant
$35 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Ever since my brother traveled to Las Vegas and took this photo of the Bellagio ceiling (which features over 2000 hand-blown glass elements by artist Dale Chihuly), I've wanted to base a piece of artwork on it! The rainbow colors span out as if they go on forever. This pendant has it all - it's fun, it's colorful, it will go with any outfit or fit in with any jewelry design. It's a sure way to brighten your day when you wear this piece. Round brass bail, ready to slip on your favorite jewelry chain, cord, or ribbon.
 


Peaceful Peak (Colorado)

2.25"x1.75" ~Art Pendant
$45
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


They say there's such as thing as the "perfect calm". I believe I found it when I was at my dad's home up in the mountains of Colorado. The inspiration photo here is one I took right outside the house. That's Pike's Peak in the background. The play of light...the colors from the sun...it was all just amazing. And the thing I remembered most was the silence - the sense of peace and the feeling all was right in the world. This art pendant reflects that peace, as well as the scene from the photograph. It has a brass spiral bail, ready to slip over your favorite chain, jewelry cord, or ribbon. This pendant would also make a fantastic ornament or miniature framed painting.
 


Golden Turquoise

1.5" ~Art Pendant
$40 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Rich turquoise blue coloring glistens with spots of gold in this fascinating design which will take you from office to evening with ease and sparkle. The pendant has a regal shield shape, and measures 1 1/2". A brass spiral bail makes it easy to slip onto your favorite chain, ribbon or jewelry cord.
 


Red Hot Pepper

2.75"x1" ~Art Pendant
$60 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


A spicy, red hot chili pepper hinged pendant with a touch of gold leaf.
 


Margaritaville

2.25"x1" ~Art Pendant
$45 ~
SOLD
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


When I spotted this cool photograph of Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville in New Orleans, I knew I had to create a pendant based on the incredible colors.
 


At Rest

2 3/8" x 2" ~Art Pendant
$125

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Brass, solid cobalt blue glass beads, and unique orange and yellow striped beads. Necklace length is 16" at the longest length and is adjustable with a fish hook clasp to a shorter length.
 


Wave of the Flowers

2 1/4" x 1 1/8" ~Art Pendant
$75

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


A refreshing necklace with bursts of pink flowers against the blue green waves. Pendant hangs from an 18" goldtone round mesh chain.
 


Hibiscus Dreams

1.75" ~Art Pendant
$45 ~
SOLD

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Hibiscus Dreams, a striking original art pendant, features a colorful bloom against the backdrop of a starry night.
 


Mardi Gras Happy Hour

1 3/4" x 1 1/8" ~Art Pendant
$45

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Mardis Gras Happy Hour is a totally FUN design, based on the inspiration photo.
 


Blues Tonight

1 5/8" x 1" ~Art Pendant
$45

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee

 


Inspiration Photo
 

Jai Johnson- The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, Art Gallery Tennessee


Blues Tonight is a colorful art pendant with a musical touch...just a dash of the blues to cool things off a bit.
 


Bullet ~
Scarlet Macaw
2" ~Art Pendant
$55 ~
SOLD