Ayala Bar, The Artist Behind the Jewelry
Art always played a major part in my life. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been passionate about drawing, sculpture, embroidery, and sewing. Though I studied art, I was never formally trained in jewelry making or silversmithing. Yet, I have always been drawn to jewelry as a form of expression, and I’m proud to say that after crafting jewelry for over 35 years, I still find joy in the creative process. The connection I have with the materials keeps my work evolving and exciting.
I allow my creativity to take its own path, and as a result, unexpected materials often find their way into my jewelry. I once picked up a few autumn leaves on my way to the studio and incorporated them into one of my designs.
The bold use of unconventional materials in jewelry became my signature.
Inspiration
The materials themselves have always been my muse. Fabrics, beads, glass, and threads speak to me more than diamonds or gold. They have a special energy and raw beauty that lets me create jewelry that’s full of life.
My cultural background also deeply influenced me.
Long after my jewelry design journey began, I visited an exhibition of Afghan jewels. As I explored the gallery, I was amazed by the similarities between the artifacts and my work. The designs felt as if they were part of my own collection.
At that moment, I thought of my dear late grandmother who immigrated from Afghanistan to Israel and lived to 111, and realized how my roots had shaped my art, without me being aware of it.
Textile
Textile plays a central role in Ayala Bar's designs. Unexpected combinations of fabric, thread, lace, tassels, and pompoms are hallmarks of her work. The artist employs techniques such as embroidery, weaving, knitting, gluing, and hand sewing, with each collection introducing new methods and fresh concepts. The fabrics feature striking prints and textures and are sourced mainly from India, the Middle East, and Morocco. One of the artist’s main uses of fabric is in bead-making, where she combines it with glass to create vibrant, uniquely crafted beads.
Metals
The metallic elements in the jewelry are made from brass plated with silver or gold and include uniquely designed components, chains, and beads. Through techniques such as connecting, gluing, wrapping, and threading, the metals become a dynamic element that adds texture and color to the overall composition of every piece. In addition to their major aesthetic role, the metal parts also provide the framework and foundation for combining other materials.
Ayala Bar jewelry is made only with the highest quality, non-toxic materials. Each metal component undergoes special treatment to ensure long-lasting durability.
Beads
A wide variety of vibrant beads in different colors, textures, shapes, and types form a central motif that defines Ayala Bar’s jewelry. Each bead is thoughtfully selected to create feminine, harmonious, flattering, and unique pieces. Some are crafted in-house from various raw materials using special techniques, while others are treasures Ayala collects from markets and exhibitions worldwide. The collections feature colorful glass beads, unique ceramic stones, crystals, gemstones, seed beads, textile beads, and more.
