Treasure Chest: Sarah McGuire
Sarah McGuire
This month we asked designer Sarah McGuire of Chicago, “What’s the coolest thing in your vault?” Here’s what she had to say.
What’s the coolest thing in your vault?
I’ve been making these elephant pendants for about three years now. They’re all one of a kind and I typically make only a few at a time. Each one has it’s own unique character—I’m a little obsessed with them.
How long has it been under lock and key?
I’ve been hiding one for about a year. The rest of his herd sold rather quickly at a show, and since I rarely get to spend time with them after they leave my bench, I took the opportunity to squirrel him away for a bit.
Why is it so cool?
These pieces are playful and fun but there’s also a talismanic quality to them. Elephants have been depicted throughout history in various religious cultures and mythologies as symbols of strength, wisdom, and good luck. A whole lot of love goes into each one of these little metal creatures and they really come to life at the bench. I don’t start with a specific plan so they really take shape in the process of making them.
Do you have any plans for it?
I typically show the elephants in groups so when he was the last one left, he was just hanging out in the studio and I grew rather attached to him. Now I really don’t want to let him go but I’m sure I eventually will.
Last fall I had the opportunity to visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) in Kenya. They run an incredible rescue and rehabilitation program for infant elephants and rhinos that have been orphaned by ivory poachers and loss of habitat. I’m at work on a new herd now and I’m excited to donate the proceeds from the sale of this work to DSWT’s conservation efforts. The African elephant is in danger of becoming extinct within our lifetime. I want to do what I can to increase awareness of the poaching crisis while raising money to help end it.