Artist of the Month

The walls of Burlap and Bean are currently
featuring the work of Cynthia Murray.

Design has always been an integral part of my life. Studying landscape architecture at both Rutgers University and University of Illinois led to a career in landscape architecture, working for over two decades on a wide variety of projects throughout the country as well as European and Caribbean locations.

Turning over a design to teams of contractors always left me frustrated that I was not a more active part of that process when the dreams imagined become a physical reality. That frustration led me to find creative outlets where I could take an idea and follow through to a finished product. Painting and designing jewelry allows me to explore my different areas of interest.

My jewelry skills are primarily self-taught and the pieces I make often reflect an interest in artifacts from earlier times, things discarded or forgotten. Many of the components that I incorporate are found in thrift stores, yard sales and sometimes on the sidewalk. I enjoy combining the recycled and repurposed finds with new materials, finding a whimsical spirit by juxtaposing unusual textures. Painting is a recent venture. Not surprisingly, a favored subject is the landscape.

If you are interested in displaying artwork, please email our cultural arts director at tara@burlapandbean.com.