From an early age, Irene was inspired by the world’s antiquities. Her family’s travels resulted in a wide collection of artifacts such as porcelain, textiles, paintings and jewelry. She was absorbed by how each beautifully crafted object carried entrancing aesthetic significance, as well as held a clear utilitarian purpose. 

After a childhood engrossed in crafting objects of her own, she focused on painting at Whitman College where she received a BA in Studio Art. For the last 7 years, Irene moves somewhat equally between painting and jewelry-making. Her new line of jewelry, History+Industy has garnered national attention from both fashion and art enthusiasts alike.

J E W E L R Y

History+Industry was born from the desire to translate ancient artifact into powerful contemporary adornment. Decidedly modern, these lush pieces are infused with hints of ancient royal costuming that transcend the day to day and seek to serve as a protective armor, a talisman of empowerment. Colorful, tactile, and boldly architectural these creations convey a new world history and yet seek to preserve the memories of those that came before. When asked to describe the intent behind her work, Wood shares, “These substantial statement necklaces are extensions of their owner’s inner-strength, power, confidence and originality.”

Wood’s necklaces are in constant flux. Much like the women that wear them, these pieces travel between boldness and elegance, antiquity and modernity, sophistication and lightheartedness, assertiveness and discerning acquiescence. Wood shares, “By creating a platform for self expression, it is my hope that whomever finds a connection with a particular piece seeks to imbue it with her own personal mythology. That the necklace in a sense carries the folklore of each woman. I want her to put on a necklace, make it her own, and feel beautiful.”