Nance started designing and making her own jewelry as a child in her dad's shop with steel and solder wire, nails, and unidentified objects. Growing up and other desires led her to the Fashion Institute of Technology where she graduated with a degree in Interior Design in 1987. From interior design to painting decorative finishes to landscape design and stone masonry, she has returned to her initial love of making wearable sculpture. From her travels to Nepal, India, Australia, New Zealand, Mongolia, and China, she works from a mixed pallet of inspiration and cultural influences. Since moving to Vermont, Nance has studied with Katie Cleaver, Jen Soderberg, Michael Stimpfel, and Mathew Taylor. Nance works from her off the grid solar studio in her home that she shares with her husband, dog, cats, and chickens.

Artist's Statement:

I have worked with large natural pieces of stone for many years as a landscape stoneworker. This work influences my jewelry design by combining natural elements with silver, copper, brass, and gold. I am inspired by the elements of Eastern philosophy, earth, fire, and metal. Designing jewelry and making one of a kind pieces has allowed me to express the textures and shapes that I see and feel in the natural world. I enjoy making jewelry that is large and will not be forgotten as it is worn.