Carole Grisham

Hiyama Studios

"I am inspired to create elegant and contemporary wearable art using traditionally hand crafting methods and modern materials in new and unlikely ways."

In a world of mass production, Carole believes that detailed, beautiful, and unique goods will survive fleeting fashions. She strives to create wearable art that is elegant and contemporary in style yet traditionally hand crafted using historical techniques. Carole knows that when a creation of a much loved treasure is the goal of your work, perfection is key.

Using a historical wooden braiding stand of Japanese origin, Carole creates vibrantly colored textile and beaded jewelry from fine silk, cotton, and monofilament threads and small glass beads, stones, and found objects. Materials and unusual embellishments are carefully selected to make each piece a small treasure. All work is done meticulously by hand, bead by bead and thread to thread.

Carole's love for handmade objects and textiles, and her ability to use unlikely materials comes from working with her mother, Alyce Hiyama, a talented tailor and costume designer. She has perfected her skills through coursework, teaching, and continued practice. She has returned to this first love, after successful executive careers with leading Pacific Northwest companies and organizations.

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Selected Exhibitions & Awards
American Craft Council Shows, Baltimore and St. Paul Convention Centers, Baltimore Maryland, St. Paul Minnesota, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
Bellevue Arts Museum ArtsFair, Bellevue Square Mall, Bellevue, Washington, 2017,2018,2019
One of a Kind Spring and Holiday Shows, The Mart, Chicago IL, 2018, 2019
Carol Duke Artist Award - Jewelry, Bellevue Arts Museum, ArtsFair, Bellevue Washington, 2013
Showcase 500 Art Necklaces, Chunghi Choo Juror, Lark Jewlery and Beading, Publication (pages 54, 362), New Yorkm New York, 2013