Using nature as the ultimate inspiration, Linda Jenson sets out to share her fascination with insects by creating eye-catching critters that are simply delightful.

“It’s jewellery with shock value… never met with indifference, people’s responses range from a shudder to a squeal of delight,” she reveals.

Working from her studio at her Hills home, a small community one and a half hours north of Nelson B.C., Linda creates pins for jackets, hats, ties, etc.; pieces for home décor items like a bug on a lampshade; and larger pieces which may have a magnet or a wall mount hook.

Linda explains the fascination with insects by saying, “Insects outnumber all other life on this planet, plants and animals combined. Their structure and function is almost other-worldly. Also it’s fascinating how tiny, usually harmless creatures can strike fear in the hearts of man.”

“The visually striking types of insects are my favourites; bright metallics or colourful patterns with interesting designs. Then… there’s the shock value of a large spider or centipede.”

Originally focused on reptiles and amphibians, experimentation with a variety of new materials led her to the insect world. The materials include putty, a two part compound that can accept an array of supplies: colours, glass, metal, plastics, and stones.

“Skinks” which is the name of a local lizard, remains the name of her craft. She kept the unique name despite the different tangent her work took. To know more, contact Linda at: ldjenson@hotmail.com

Linda has been skinking (her word for creating with these materials) for 15 years. Her work is carried at Nelson’s Craft Connection, The Royal BC Museum, and a few other private gift shops and galleries in BC. In the past, she has sold at the Vancouver Art Gallery, Canadian Craft Museum, and Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.

Describing the Craft Connection as influential in professional development, Linda has been self employed in many creative manners; illustration, logo design, sign painting, murals, and theatre.

When asked about her roots, the Edmonton Alberta native describes her hometown’s geographical landscape as rather bleak, but inhabited by people who are deeply inspired, surrounded by a very strong arts scene (visual, music, theater). As a child she says she spent far too much time alone, entertaining herself with drawing and doodling.

Today, Linda calls the Kootenays her home, a place she has lived for the past 30 years. She feels that the sheer beauty of the area, the mountains, the clouds, the protective atmosphere, the scenic drama yet the calmness was what drew her here.

“It abounds with eccentric people, an alternative/progressive mentality, a place where opposites coexist within a self sufficient community,” she says fondly.

You could also say that the Kootenays abound with insects within these natural surroundings: a perfect place to find the critters that manage to be the inspiration for Linda’s pieces of art.