Ann Cofta - Jellyfish Reliquary

Ann Cofta

I have always been fascinated by the little cases found in antique markets designed to house creative accoutrements like thimbles, sewing scissors, and needles. They are from another era, and are exquisitely crafted pieces in and of themselves. Best of all they are functional, giving them an added importance. This work is part of a series I began in 2003. At the time I was teaching at a summer arts program in South Dakota for Native American teens. The students taught me traditional beading techniques, which I then began combining with my love of New York places and sites. The result: reliquaries that pay homage to locations in the city. The artworks are not meant to house a sacred item necessarily, but they could be used to hold something special. The materials I work with are important. Beads have an allure that initially catch people’s attention. But one has to get closer to the work to truly see it and fully appreciate it. The best moment comes near completion of the artwork. I have to purchase a button that will serve as a closure to finish the piece. This usually requires a trip into the Manhattan, and means an adventure in the fashion district. For this piece, the inspiration was the jellyfish tank at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island.