Alyx Mark is one of our newest artists at Ginger Root Design and we couldn’t be more stoked to have her work in our store. Her jewelry line, Xyla (which is her name spelled backwards!), features necklaces with beads that Alyx molds from polymer clay. The beads’ texture and weight make them a tactile treat that doesn’t compare to gemstones or metal.  And with such vibrant playful colors, they’re just in time for the warm weather!

 Get to know the gal behind these fun, chunky beauties.

How did you come to Ginger Root Design? I attended a holiday party at Ginger Root to help support a brand of one of my friend’s friends.  I was impressed at how the staff seemed to know a little story about every designer’s work; I liked the idea of selling my jewelry at a shop where the work could be explained to those who are interested.  I think this is a unique model and really appreciate it as a designer!

What inspired you to begin making jewelry?  I am a PhD student and feel like my ‘day job’ is intangible, doing research, writing papers and the like.  It is nice to come home and actually get to make something with my hands!

How has your work evolved over time? I started making my necklaces at a friend’s craft party.  I saw a round polymer beaded necklace online and I thought I could make something better and in colors I would actually wear.  Since round beads are harder than they look to make, I looked into how I could make cleaner, more geometric pieces.  As I’ve become more confident, I’ve played around with different shapes, sizes, and color combinations.

What inspires your designs and creations? Clean, sharp, and bright geometric paintings (think Kevin Bean); unexpected sights in nature; Wes Anderson’s color stories.

What is your favorite thing to do in DC? I love going on sandwich tours (checking out the best sandwich shops in the city – Sundevich, Fast Gourmet, and Stachowski’s are high on the list) and walking my dog, Smudge, to Rose Park.

Stop by the store to see Alyx’s pieces in person!