My first exposure to art was sitting at my grandmother’s knee. She painted, sculpted, made pencil drawings and birthday cards. Best of all, she invited me to join her. That special time with my grandmother kindled my creativity that remains to this day.

As a young adult, marriage, raising children and pursuing a career took precedence. But in my spare time I was needlepointing a family crest, making macrame hangers for plants and taking art classes all along the way.

In my travels over the years, I have always been fascinated by local art. In India, I was intrigued by the colors in the clothes and jewelry worn by both men and women. The many ways in which beads were used inspired me to start my own collection. I bought combined lapis, ivory and silver beads so old that I had to drill dirt from their holes.

I continue to collect beads and pendants from around the world. For several years, I incorporated them in necklaces for family and friends – including them in the design process.

In 2021, I was diagnosed with early stage Parkinson’s Disease. I decided that my jewelry-making had a purpose – to help other people who battle this disease. That's why all the profits from Turnberry Beadery are being donated to the Parkinson Voice Project – bringing speech and voice therapy to Parkinson’s patients everywhere.

Please accompany me in this adventure. Find something that brings you pleasure and join in supporting a worthy cause.

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Ellen Livingston
ellen@turnberrybeadery.com