It’s a recession and most of us should not be shopping for much beyond necessities. I recently put myself on a spending moratorium, but then I met Dana Ayanna Greaves, the creative mind behind Artistic Aya, last Saturday at her trunk show held at Azi’s Cafe in the Shaw neighborhood. All ideas of sensible spending were immediately beaten into temporary submission as I oohed and aaahed at her range of strikingly unique pieces. It is apparent that Aya has a background in art. Here pieces are essentially art installments for the body. There was something for every person, from the bold to the meek, but even the smallest of pieces still made a statement. I was especially enamored with her use of rolled magazine paper in her jewelry. In the era of “going green” it only seems appropriate that fashion follow suit recycling used material into something new.

“Entirely fantastic” aptly describes all that is Artistic Aya. I wanted most of everything laid out for her show and I assure you that you would feel the same. Let’s review some of the standouts:

This cotton neck piece was the first thing that caught my eye.  The contrast of the black and white stripes and ruffled orange collar are superb in a quirky but classic way. I’m not sure if it’s a necklace, or a scarf, but I just want it to be mine.

This necklace was also a favorite. It speaks to society’s obsession with wealth and specifically “bling”; a thought-provoking but humorous piece.

Another signature of Aya’s is reconstructing vintage findings into contemporary jewelry. This collar was made from a vintage crochet collar with vintage dress sequin embellishments, a vintage necklace and a set of vintage clip earrings.

My absolute favorite, and almost my purchase for the afternoon, was this amazingly bold neck piece. Can we say “temptation”?  Made from a vintage paper, vintage jewelry findings and tulle, it’s the perfect example of how Artistic Aya is where visual art meets fashion.