Ledų kaušelis and Medine Saule are just a small part of an ongoing series of sculptural and jewelry work. Each piece is hand-crafted out of various precious metals and high quality wood.

Growing up as a second- generation immigrant, I was constantly surrounded by tokens of my family’s past. Despite not knowing any of the language or any family members, I still considered myself European-American. Assimilation is a common reaction to immigrating, an easy way to let go of your identity and fit in. How do we hold onto our heritage?

I focus on physical representations of family relics, the protection of heritage over cultural erosion. With intense analysis of historical folk imagery and studying my familial origins, I hope to connect myself with my history and culture, further close the gap between the past and present, and immerse myself with my identity.