The St. Lawrence Market is putting a spotlight on local artisans with Arts at the Market, taking place Oct. 7 and 8. It’s the last time this year that the vendors will fill the outdoor spaces of the complex. Here’s three to check out:
A decade of unique designs
After 10 years at the St. Lawrence Market, Maria Lopez’s one-of-a-kind jewellery is still a destination. Her collections include skeleton leaves, pressed flowers, pendants and beaded jewellery. She uses materials such as natural stones, freshwater pearls, sterling silver and silk. “I like to play with materials that are not often used in jewellery. I once designed a pendant for a friend in which I drew a Japanese symbol of health with saffron threads suspended in resin.” All pieces are handmade and many are unique. Lopez will start selling online this month. Maria Lopez Jewellery
Leather at the St. Lawrence
Oh Ya Leather’s handmade goods exhibit a care that is hard to find in mass-manufactured items. “Everything you see I have made from the heart and by hand,” says owner Meya Hsu. “From pattern design, hand stitching, machine-sewn linings, hand-dyed and custom selected leather, Oh Ya, it’s all me.” Her pieces are made from cowhide vegetable-tanned leather. She likes to use the shoulder as it has natural wrinkles, making each product unique. Among her more popular items are the Metro Pass coin purse ($35) and the tote bag ($240). And if you’re having a hard time finding that item, Oh Ya Leather takes custom orders. Oh Ya Leather
It’s her nature
Theresa Duong’s jewellery draws inspiration from nature. Her succs collection ($25–$60) is inspired by succulent plants. The brass necklaces, earrings and pins are made green through a natural chemical process to mimic the natural colours of succulents. Her mini rosy scallops studs are made in sterling silver, 14-karat rose gold, white gold and yellow gold ($80+). Duong’s new bridal collection uses soft colours and textures to accentuate the beauty in a bride’s minimalist gown. Duong also does custom orders. Theresa Duong Jewellery
