My name is Melina and I'm a self-taught Jewelry Artist, Silver & Goldsmith. The name LUPANYXA (Loopah-Niksah) is inspired by many things. The word Lupa for "shewolf", and Nyxa is a variation on the Greek name Nyx: the primordial goddess of, and personification of the Night. It's my way of carrying my ancestors with me. Together I formed these words into LUPANYXA. I feel this name connected deep within me. 

 I found my way to jewelry many years after working in costume, clothing and accessory design. My jewelry is responsibly and fastidiously crafted, forged, and smithed by my two hands in my studio in Portland, Oregon, ever since I began smithing in 2014.

I recycle, melt, mill, anneal and make most all of my components myself, as opposed to buying ready-made milled silver sheet and wire from a supplier. 

Jewelry is the medium that absolutely captures my attention in every way, as I've always been an artist, sculptor and designer who's obsessed with adornment.

 I work almost exclusively with recycled Sterling, Fine Silver and Solid Gold. I care deeply about the quality and longevity of my work, and use responsibly sourced stones and gems from mines here in the Americas and from the most reputable and ethical suppliers. I discerningly source from a few, very select overseas suppliers. Many of the cabochons I use in my work, are cut in-house by my partner and 2nd generation Lapidarist, Max Avila. 

My inspiration arises from the mystery of life itself, mythology, the vastness of the cosmos, the stable density of earth, the emotion of water, the invisible messages in the ether, the excitement of fire, the changing seasons, cycles, rituals, forests, oceans, creatures and all of nature.

I often channel my ancient ancestors and animal allies in my work. I try to honor all peoples, plants and creatures by creating reminders of our connection to each other and most of all the great mystery of being alive. 

Connection is our truth.

 

 

 Retailers:

Workshop Vintage - Portland, Oregon

 

 

Past and Current Exhibitions:

Ghost Gallery - Seattle, Washington 'Pollination Syndrome' Group Exhibit 2022

Pacific Crest Creatives - Cle Elum, Washington:  Featured Gallery Artist 2019 - 2022