Artists Re-Born on the Sidewalks of New York

New York, NY - When lyricist James Blake wrote the century-old lyrics to The Sidewalks of New York," he wrote of a simpler way of life, where carefree children played, learned, and went forward... only to dream of those simpler times when they and their friends tripped the light fantastic on the sidewalks of New York." In 2002, people are still dreaming of a simpler life. A group of five talented and dedicated artists and designers known as Jewel of the Moon," are re-claiming simplicity for themselves-not only on the sidewalks of New York City, but just about anywhere else they are invited.

New York, NY - When lyricist James Blake wrote the century-old lyrics to The Sidewalks of New York," he wrote of a simpler way of life, where carefree children played, learned, and went forward... only to dream of those simpler times when they and their friends tripped the light fantastic on the sidewalks of New York." In 2002, people are still dreaming of a simpler life. A group of five talented and dedicated artists and designers known as Jewel of the Moon," are re-claiming simplicity for themselves-not only on the sidewalks of New York City, but just about anywhere else they are invited.

Headed by jewelry designer Retno Hadiatmodjo and her partner Javier Gomez, youll often find Jewel of the Moon along New Yorks sidewalks setting up their trendy, almost Bohemian bazaar at street fairs. The down-to-earth entourage is every bit at home at the fair as they are giving exclusive showings of their work in galleries. The designers of Jewel of the Moon are a little different," explains Gomez. We were all deeply touched by and had our lives and perspectives altered by September 11th. We are among many New Yorkers who once chose more traditional work and jobs. Now, we see value in seeking more. One former corporate worker for instance, decided that life is too short to continue with work that brought her no pleasure, so gave up that life to follow her dream to design jewelry. Another lost her job due to the tragedy and decided to turn to her God-given artistic skills that she hadnt used previously. And one talented nurse by occupation now focuses on designing jewelry allowing her to create something positive after a day of often dealing with negatives. Theyre guided by their willingness to go beyond fear and have faith in their abilities to make themselves known through their artistic designs," says Gomez.

Having been re-born into their new artistic lives, they have a different approach towards work. Gomez describes their love of one-on-one contact with lookers as well as buyers an intimate and somewhat symbiotic relationship where a customers desire to speak and understand the artist is fulfilled while providing the designer with a look into the hearts of clients and admirers. Hadiatmodjo says, Being able to speak directly with the designer in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere is something that makes us stand apart. There are no artistic egos or pushy sales clerks at Jewel of the Moon, only designers who love to talk about their work, and customers who love to ask questions. This is not a faceless business."

Nor is it a business that will be confined to the sidewalks of New York for long. Hadiatmodjo and Gomez recently made the decision to introduce their fledgling group to the world through its own virtual and exotic online marketplace at www.jewelofthemoon.com. It gives visitors a glimpse of what theyre missing along those sidewalks-from Hadiatmodjos own stunning Far-East inspired jewelry and Tanita Holloways daring ensemble of raw blue coral and snake vertebrae to Darlene Charnecos critically acclaimed nail-studded wall constructions. It introduces each artist, provides you with a schedule of where to find them, and showcases for what are in many cases, one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry and fine art. Today," says Hadiatmodjo, someone told me that her new necklace made her feel good and she often uses it as her personal amulet. I think the feeling comes from what goes into each piece-absolute love, passion and yes, hope."

It was important to get this group on the internet," explains Gomez. They have a message to give the world. Life is short-give whatever you have to give, and be humble enough to share your gifts with others, whether on a city sidewalk or in a world-renowned gallery. Dont ever be too busy to touch another life."