I’m Joan Hester, a cloisonné artist and silversmith whose work brings together ancient techniques with a fresh, modern sensibility. I create jewelry in silver and gold, often accented with semi-precious stones that add depth, texture, and color to my designs. Each piece I make is both carefully crafted and artfully composed, reflecting my deep respect for tradition while embracing a contemporary style.

My love for metalwork began at a young age while working alongside my father in his shop. Watching him shape and transform raw materials sparked my curiosity and passion for creating by hand—an inspiration that continues to guide me today. My father had a shop with every tool imaginable. He crafted everything from furniture to jewelry and inspired me to follow my creativity wherever it might lead. I began working mainly with silver, and now I love adding the vibrant colors of enamels, which have taken my work in exciting new directions.

Through cloisonné, I bring landscapes, patterns, and subtle details into wearable art. Each piece tells a story rooted in heritage, inspired by my personal journey, and designed to connect beauty with meaning for those who wear it.

When I am not in my Bend, Oregon studio, you can often find me hiking, skiing, or kayaking on one of the many lakes in Oregon. My outdoor adventures continually inspire my work, along with the guidance and influence of talented artists such as J.E. Halpern, Steve LaRance, and Suzy Williamson. I also enjoy working with colorful semi-precious stones and silver through inlay and other stone-setting techniques, blending tradition with a personal, evolving vision.