Evitts Creek is a quiet stream nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Western Maryland — the place where I first began to explore silversmithing and metalwork. Surrounded by this landscape, I found both inspiration and the space to grow my craft.

My background in printmaking, especially etching metals, shaped my emphasis on texture and embossing. The nature around me continues to provide endless ideas: flowing water, animals, birds, insects, and the native plants I’m restoring on my land. Living in the woods has changed how I see — I notice subtle details more than ever, and I carry that awareness into each piece of jewelry I create.

The patterns I carve and press into sterling silver are often drawn from native Appalachian plants. I primarily work in sterling silver and semi-precious gemstones, with occasional touches of brass and copper. Each piece reflects both the rugged beauty of these old mountains and the care I bring to my craft.

— Lois Gibbs McManus