We promise, Yaga-na love it

The name might mean “ugly” but the wearable art created for the Baba Yaga line definitely is not.

Nik, the artist behind Baba Yaga, a Slavic folk tale figure that literally translates as “ugly grandmother,” has created a line of artisan jewelry that is unique, beautiful and enduring.

The jewelry will be on display in “Understories,” the new exhibit at the Newport Visual Arts Center, opening with a public reception at 1 pm this Sunday, Dec. 3.

Nik has always been enamored with the hidden worlds along the forest floor. Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, she spent a childhood surrounded by nature, from ocean beaches to the deep woods. For Nik, these are familiar places filled with memory, magic and secret treasures.

Primarily self-taught, she developed her own style and method of jewelry and artmaking over many years.

Pieces included in this unique exhibit feature intricate beadwork, delicate semi-precious gemstones and sterling silver wirework with organic elements incorporated whenever possible. The wearable works of art are meant to possess a depth of texture, detail and wonder.

“Each work is a chance to create a precious object that will have a life — a character — of its own," Nik said. "Personal adornment is an art form of realizing individual expression, as well as using ornament as charms that can evoke strength, courage, comfort, beauty, health, richness in life…anything the imagination wishes for."

“Understories” will be on display through February 25 at the Newport Visual Arts Center, located at 777 NW Beach Drive, open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4 pm. For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-6540.