Southwest
Luminous turquoise skies. Radiant ochre sapphires. An oasis of lush emeralds. A rainbow of gems flashing like iridescent hummingbird wings in the desert sunlight. Emily P. Wheeler’s newest collection celebrates the indelible landscape of the Southwest, which she’s loved since a family road trip to the Grand Canyon when she was a child.
Designs in the new collection reference earth and sky, Southwestern style, and the work of contemporary artists who are deeply rooted in this land and the culture of the First Peoples who call it home. Emily was inspired by the rhythm of the textile art of Marie Watt, the saturated palette of Emmi Whitehorse and the beadwork-inspired pointillism of Starr Hardridge. The collection also pays tribute to the dazzling artistry of generations of Native American, Mexican and Spanish silversmiths, potters, weavers, and embroiderers, whose unsigned work still inspires us all today.
The Palette of the Southwest
The Southwest Collection contrasts earthy sage green, adobe red and desert-toned neutrals with bright explosions of exuberant sunshine, fiery sunsets, and azure skies. Materials are ethically sourced, including traceable Single Mine Origin gold, exceptional Myne London Emeralds sourced from the Swat Valley in Pakistan with the highest social and environmental standards, a full spectrum of ethical Sri Lankan sapphires, and antique diamonds.
“Southwest style is a result of many cultures colliding. What came from that is something unique and representative of a lot of diverse talent.”
Bold Color
The collection’s bold geometry is inspired by the vivid patterns of Talavera tiles, the hand-painted, tin-glazed ceramics produced in Puebla, Mexico using 16th century Spanish ceramic techniques. Color blocking, custom-cut gems and beads, and exquisitely flexible gemstone mesh make these dramatic statements wearable. Like all of Emily P. Wheeler’s vibrant designs, the Southwest Collection transforms every day into an unforgettable adventure.
