Jewelry Designer Turns Sentimental Objects into Wearable Art: Meet Lincoln Pollock
Many of us hold onto items that carry our dearest memories, like family heirlooms and personal mementos. At Arcwood Jewelry, designer Lincoln Pollock transforms those objects into one-of-a-kind jewelry with real presence. Keep reading to discover how he does it.
What do you make, and what makes your approach distinctive?
I create custom handcrafted jewelry from unique and ethical materials, from wood to stained glass. My approach to jewelry is very material-focused with a reliance on simplicity to bring out the depth and texture of the materials I’m using. I often incorporate client-provided elements in my work, such as wood from a family tree or fabric from a wedding dress, to combine my craftsmanship with meaningful materials that further its story.
How did you come to this work, and when did it shift from something you did for fun into a business?
The catalyst to start Arcwood Jewelry was a YouTube video on the creation process of a wood ring. I fell in love with the process and hands-on nature of the work, combined with the precision and tooling. After I received the tools to create what I was looking to create, I knew that I wanted to do this full-time. I naturally focus on details, which inhibited me from performing my best in other careers I was studying. In this industry, I am able to use my skills in a positive and purposeful way.
How does your work connect to a community, tradition or set of values you care about?
My values for Arcwood consist of authenticity, intentional craftsmanship, and sustainability. I believe the value of work is in the material itself and the thought behind its process from raw state to a new finished state.
When I work with clients directly, I often transform their materials, which hold story, meaning and emotion, creating a shared authorship in the finished piece. I find that extremely rewarding and meaningful, which fuels my passion for what I do.
I aim to combine aesthetic value with a grounded personal approach that respects the craft and the story.
What are you working on now?
My newest custom piece, which I fell in love with, involved the use of a grapevine that held meaning to my client due to his appreciation for wine and his profession. This was the first time working with this material, but the results were stunning, and I plan to continue using this in future projects.
What's something about running a creative business you wish more people understood?
A creative business that holds its values and passion while maintaining success can be a hard concept to balance.
What's the most useful piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting their creative business?
Don't be afraid to ask questions about things you don't know. Also, talk to everyone you can in and out of your field. There is something to learn from everyone.
What brings you joy outside of your work?
I love writing music and playing my guitar in my free time. I also enjoy playing pool on the weekends and am now getting into learning bonsai!
What do you love about working in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is a place to be creative. The number of artists and creatives that call Rhode Island home makes me feel that I am in the right place. Of course, the food is a huge plus too.
Thanks, Lincoln! You can find out more about Arcwood Jewelry at arcwoodjewelry.com.
Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
