Metal as a Story: The Evolution of Jill Melyssa’s Bold, Sculptural Jewelry
Jill Melyssa | Photographer: Robb Webb Photos | ArtPop Street Gallery
Jill Melyssa’s path to jewelry metalsmithing was pure serendipity. With an MBA and a career in HR behind her, she stepped into a Brooklyn metal art studio in 2013 and discovered her true calling. She had been making beaded jewelry, but the moment she touched metal—copper, brass, and enamel—something clicked. That studio wasn’t just a workspace; it was the beginning of an artistic evolution. At first, Jill’s designs reflected the architectural beauty of New York City and the fantasy of haute couture. But over time, her jewelry became something more personal—a metal story capturing emotions, experiences, and growth. Each piece is a statement of individuality, a reflection of her belief that embracing uniqueness is a form of power.
Leaf Statement Cuff | Photographer: Robb Webb Photos | ArtPop Street Gallery Gala 2024
Jewelry, for Jill, is more than adornment. It carries meaning, identity, and connection. In a world flooded with mass production, she believes handcrafted pieces stand apart, empowering those who wear them. Every detail—textures, gemstones, and forms—is intentional, infused with symbolism and strength.
Much of her inspiration comes from history’s forgotten elegance—the grandeur of old-world architecture, the intricate patterns of ironwork grates, and the craftsmanship of bygone eras. She sees her work as a tribute to artisans who created beauty with care and purpose long before mass production took over. Avant-garde designers like Schiaparelli and German Kabirski inspire her bold approach, while icons like Jean Schlumberger and Elsa Peretti influence her sculptural sensibility.
Adopted from Colombia, Jill spent much of her life searching for belonging. Now, she sees her uniqueness as her greatest strength and hopes her work inspires others to do the same. Her designs serve as a reminder to embrace individuality with confidence and pride.
Subway grate ring with stones
Her creative process is a balance of intuition and meticulous craftsmanship. A song lyric, an emotion, or an architectural detail might spark a sketch, which then evolves through hand fabrication, casting, and 3D printing. When creative blocks hit, she resets by blasting music, taking solo drives, or setting deadlines to push through. She’s learned to tune out comparisons and focus on her own artistic journey.
One of her most meaningful collections is inspired by NYC subway grates—overlooked details she found beauty in while walking with her father in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. She incorporates gemstones as a nod to small stones caught in these grates, transforming the ordinary into something precious.
Times Square, NY Billboard | Photographer: Hakim Media Productions | ArtPop Street Gallery | Outfront Media USA
Jill’s career has been marked by exciting milestones. In 2024, she was named one of ten emerging artists in the U.S. by the American Craft Council Cohort, receiving a grant and a business mentorship. She received a second grant to help bring casting in-house. These will allow her to refine her process, gain creative control, and explore new techniques. She was also selected for the ArtPop Street Gallery class of 2025, placing her jewelry on billboards in major cities—including Times Square, a surreal full-circle moment. Designing for a runway show was another unforgettable experience, blending storytelling, styling, and immersive artistry.
Metal Mask and Bow Collection | Model: Danielle Elizabeth | Photographer: James Carlisle Black Dog Photography 319
For aspiring jewelry designers, Jill’s advice is simple: don’t let fear hold you back. She hesitated to share her work for years, afraid of judgment, but found that putting herself out there led to connection, community, and opportunity. Beyond mastering their craft, artists should focus on building relationships—understanding their customers, engaging with their creative community, and being bold enough to share their work.
Looking ahead, Jill is eager to push her designs even further. She’s diving into casting, expanding her skills at the McColl Metal Lab, and exploring welding with steel to introduce new structural elements. She embraces the intersection of tradition and technology, incorporating casting and 3D design while preserving the artistry of handmade craftsmanship.
A member of her local Guild since 2024, she values the platform it provides for jewelry artists and hopes to see more opportunities in the field. This interview, she says, is a perfect example— offering a space to share her passion, her story, and her ever-evolving creative journey.
Connect with Jill Melyssa:
Instagram: @jillmelyssa
Website: jillmelyssa.com
Email: info@jillmelyssa.com