Spring 2024

58 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G 2 0 2 4 B eadwork is one of humankind’s most ancient art forms, dating back countless centuries and throughout countless cultures. In the 21st century, the craft is alive and well in the talented and skilled hands of Pamela Forman. “I’ve been doing beadwork for more than 30 years,” says the CarmelValley artisan, “originally inspired by Native American jewelry.” She took a hiatus from the work when she and her husband, guitarist Bruce Forman, relocated to southern California.“When we returned, I renewed my interest and start- ed making jewelry again.” She displayed some pieces at a Carmel Art &Wine Festival, was met with an enthusiastic reception,“and I decided that I was back in the game,” she says with a laugh. Forman sells her pieces under the Fire Poppy Jewelry brand at that festival, Sand City’s West End Celebration, the Homecrafters fair at Carmel’s Sunset Center and online at Etsy.com. Forman’s pieces are intricate, incorporating many disparate elements. She utilizes several techniques, including brick and peyote stitching. Some are done on a specialized loom. It’s meticulous and finely detailed work, performed in her efficient home studio. “It’s all done one bead at a time.” She’s proud of her creations, “I want people to wear and enjoy them.” To shop, visit www.etsy.com/shop/firepoppyjewelry. — Michael Chatfield ART I ST PROF I L E Pamela Forman Photo: Kelli Uldall