AbdulMalik Muhammad
he/him
Baltimore, MD, USA
Abdul-Malik Muhammad, a 28-year-old jewelry artist from Columbia, MD, crafts unique pieces that blend metallurgy, crystals, holistic healing, and spiritual elements. Currently pursuing a degree in Jewelry Design and Metal Arts at The Art Academy University, Abdul-Malik seeks opportunities to showcase his conceptual jewelry in art galleries. Under the brand "Essense Stoned," he invites individuals to align themselves with the creations, emphasizing spirituality and connection with nature. Abdul-Malik's one-of-a-kind creations, featuring crystals, seashells, fossils, feathers, and ethically sourced materials, reflect his commitment to holistic art. Through wire wrapping and beading techniques, he builds Essense Stoned's aesthetic, leaving viewers captivated by fluid textures and natural symmetry. Having vended at Smile Herb Shop, Abdul-Malik aspires for his pieces to heal and spiritually connect wearers, emphasizing the importance of alignment with nature.
“Through my art, I document struggles, celebrate triumphs, and embrace the diverse threads within our community. As a 28-year-old jewelry artist, my work intertwines metallurgy, crystals, and holistic healing, inviting viewers to align with spirituality and nature. Essense Stoned, my brand, embodies this ethos, emphasizing healing and spiritual connection. Each piece, adorned with crystals, seashells, and fossils, contributes to a narrative of personal and universal transformation. In this exhibition, I hope to foster deeper connections and amplify the collective story of queer identity.”
How does your work relate to the theme transformation— How does the work translate joy into strength?
"My work reflects the theme of transformation by integrating elements of nature and symbolism to evoke joy and strength. Through the process of electroforming, I harness the transformative power of metal to create intricate jewelry pieces that resonate with deeper meanings. Electroforming involves the deposition of metal ions onto a conductive surface, resulting in unique and organic forms that mirror the fluidity of natural processes.
Incorporating lunar cycles into my work helps balance body rhythms and hormone levels, aligning individuals with the natural world's ebb and flow. By acknowledging the influence of celestial bodies, I aim to instill a sense of harmony and connection with the universe, empowering individuals to embrace their inner strength and resilience.
The inner glow of pearls symbolizes tapping into inner wisdom and nurturing love, embodying persistence and faith. Similarly, the symbolism of the crab's spiritual animal reminds us to be perseverant and decisive, holding onto our dreams amidst life's challenges and opportunities.
Mermaid's Purse, akin to a chicken's egg in marine form, represents fertility, birth, rebirth, growth, and development. By incorporating such symbols into my creations, I invite individuals to embrace the transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
Larkspur, symbolic of beauty, swiftness, and positivity, fosters strong bonds of love and lightheartedness. Through my work, I aspire to evoke feelings of joy, optimism, and youthful energy, inspiring individuals to embrace life's beauty and cherish meaningful connections.
Finally, the jacaranda tree, with its associations of wisdom, rebirth, wealth, and good luck, embodies the transformative power of nature. By infusing my creations with elements of the jacaranda, I seek to evoke a sense of renewal, abundance, and prosperity in the wearer's life journey.
In summary, my work transcends mere adornment by weaving together elements of nature, symbolism, and transformative processes. Through jewelry, I endeavor to translate joy into strength, inviting individuals to embrace their inner wisdom, resilience, and connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of renewal, abundance, and positivity in their lives."
"Pinched Pearl", Blue crab claws, UV resin, copper, Tahitian pearls, 5.5"x 1", 2023Anything else you would like to share about this work?
This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
"Certainly, beyond the creative process, my work encompasses a deeper exploration of material sourcing, research, and personal connection. Each piece I craft is imbued with significance derived from meticulous research into the symbolic meanings of the materials used.
Sourcing materials is not just about acquiring components; it's about honoring the origins and stories behind them. I take great care to ethically and sustainably source materials, ensuring that each element has a positive impact on both the environment and the communities involved in their production.
Furthermore, my creative journey involves continuous exploration and research into the cultural and spiritual significance of the materials I incorporate. Whether it's understanding the historical context of pearls symbolizing innocence and faith or delving into the spiritual symbolism of the crab as a reminder of persistence and decisiveness, each element contributes to the narrative woven into my creations.
Moreover, the process of crafting jewelry goes beyond mere technical skill—it's a deeply personal and meditative practice. As I work, I infuse each piece with intention and energy, channeling the transformative power of nature and symbolism into tangible forms of beauty and meaning.
Ultimately, my work is a reflection of my commitment to sustainability, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. By honoring the stories behind the materials, conducting thorough research, and infusing each piece with intention, I strive to create jewelry that not only adorns the body but also nourishes the soul and sparks joy and strength in those who wear it."
"Dripping Corkscrew Earrings", Shark's purse (egg case- harm free), UV resin, copper wire, 6" x 3", 2023