The leaves in the Forest Floor Collection represent both fantasy and reality. The leaves themselves are nameless, simply an invention of a pencil-an artist’s interpretation.
An unequivocally essential part of a forest, leaves are the means by which the ecosystem breathes. Each leaf design in this collection is a token to the abundant creativity within.
While studying soil microbiology, Becky learned of the importance of fungi to plants and soil. Mycelium is the vegetative part of fungus which extracts minerals from sand and rocks for plants to absorb. This is how we get minerals in our food naturally.
The spore prints created for this collection came from an experiment. After collecting mushrooms outside, Becky laid them on paper, gill-side down and let them sit for several hours. During that time the spores of the mushroom were released, which resulted in an intricate replication of the spore print.
These prints covered our kitchen counters as we worked on the project and were later embossed into pieces for the Forest Floor Collection.
A mushroom umbrella-like shape is a symbol of protection for all who carry it. The spore print design represents a resilient organism that never ceases to provide.
Becky was looking for inspiration on a misty, grey day when she gazed out her window and saw nearby trees glistening. She went outside for a closer look and saw droplets dancing on the small twigs budding from the trees. It was the beginning of spring, and the buds were swelling with a promise of a brighter day.
These same twigs were collected and cast into the pieces seen in the Forest Floor Collection today. This element symbolizes hope with a real-life keepsake.
Walking through the forest on a winter day, Becky noticed holes in the trees from feeding woodpeckers. She grew concerned for the well-being of the trees and was inspired to design patches of “armor” to aid them.
While designing this armor, Becky kept an eye on the trees and came to realize they were healing on their own. Birds would come each day to clean bugs from the holes. Soon the bark began to form rounded edges and over time, the holes closed with new growth.
Known as the Lady of the Woods, the birch is elegant and graceful at first sight but stronger than she appears. The birch is a symbol of courage, strength and regeneration for all.
The pine needle influence seen in the Forest Floor Collection was inspired by a single row of White Pines along the driveway of the Becky Thatcher Designs store in Glen Arbor. These pines grace the surrounding forests in abundance.
The needles of the tree can be seen covering the ground, creating texture in the landscape. As one of the oldest known trees on earth, the pine represents wisdom, peace, and longevity. Each piece serves as a reminder of inner stillness and resolve.
The Dennos Museum will hold a reception for Donald A. Stuart on Sunday, October 21st at 2:00 p.m. in celebration of his exhibit Homage, featuring 40 framed neck-pieces honoring Canadian women, past and present.
Be sure to check out these captivating pieces. The exhibit runs through January 21st.
A walk in a northern Michigan wood reveals speckled light, fallen leaves, and native flora on a pine needle carpet. Remember your Michigan wanderings with the Forest Floor sterling silver cuff, created from an original sketch by designer Becky Thatcher.
We are in love with this newest addition to the Forest Floor collection. It is a statement piece that will work in any season and a true piece of art from Becky herself.
BRSFF00055 $395
We are grateful for the success of our summer pop-up store in Glen Arbor this season! Check out the details in this feature by the Glen Arbor Sun. There is still time to visit this sweet location; it will remain open through the end of October.
We invite you to bring a friend and join us on Tuesday afternoons at 3 p.m. in the Glen Arbor garden for the Tuesday Tea & Talk series! Please RSVP to 231.334.3826.
2018 Tea Topics
July 10- Green Gemstones- Tourmaline, Garnet, and Peridot
July 17- Pearls, Under Water Treasures-South Sea, Tahitian and Freshwater
July 24th- Recycled Materials-Leland Blue, Beach Glass and More
July 31st- Our Gemstone Cutters with Becky
Aug. 7th- Opals, The 8th Wonder of the World? Black Opal, Boulder Opal and Mexican Opal
Aug. 14th- Blue Gemstones-Aquamarine, Topaz and Blue Zircon
We are excited to host Marcel Roelofs again in our Glen Arbor and Traverse City locations this July! Stop in and experience Marcel’s unique interchangeable clasp system for necklaces and earrings the week of July 10th. Contact us to schedule a private appointment.
Glen Arbor
July 10 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
July 11 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
July 15 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Traverse City
July 12 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
July 13 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
July 14 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.