Forged in metal: two jewelers on the joy of art, friendship, and being Italian

Listen to the episode

Today’s show — the last of the season — contains an abundance of riches, more than I’d planned on when I invited two expert jewelers – Linda Staphos Wosczyna (left) and Deborah Strano – to come on the program. As you’ll hear, this wise and wonderful pair has been making art together for decades, inspiring each other, urging one another on, taking creative risks together, making treasures out of what others might toss in the cast-off bin. They’ve laughed, they’ve cried  — they’re twin sisters of different mothers. You might even say their connection is metallurgical,  especially as they helped build the jewelry department at Wesleyan Potters in Middletown, which is how I know Linda. You’re going to love them as much as I do.

Above, a selection of Linda’s work, including the ring and “Puttanesca: Hot and Spicy” necklace discussed in the episode. She’s on Instagram @lindastaphos. Below, Deb’s work. She’s on Insta @deborahstrano1.

Please support WESU during this, our spring pledge drive! Any size donation helps keep this kind of unusual programming going. Go to wesufm.org/donate to contribute! You put the community in community radio! Thanks!