What is DNA artistry?
When meeting new people the question “So what do you do for work?” is inevitable to be brought up in the conversation at some point. I personally love hearing all of the answers to this question. I’ve often followed their answer up with an inquisitive “Oh that sounds interesting, please tell me more.” Some may think I’m nosey but I genuinely enjoy learning about industries and professions I've not heard of before. I enjoy learning about new things even if it’s something I may never have the need for, knowing it exists makes me feel like i’m always learning and not being complacent, keeping my knowledge at a standstill. I also know that when the question is aimed at me the chances are it won’t be a quick response.
My first reply to the “What do you do” question is always “I’m a DNA artist” to which the confused look on their face leads me to continue with “I take DNA such as breastmilk, dried placenta, umbilical stump, hair, pet fur, and cremation ashes and turn it into beautiful wearable keepsakes aka jewellery as well as display pieces for your home. I also use other materials like sand, flowers, fabrics and more for those times where DNA isn’t available.” There’s usually only two reactions to this. 1) Ewww that’s gross or 2) wow that sounds really interesting. I swear you can see their minds ticking over contemplating as they decide on which side of the fence they initially stand while also asking themselves why? Why would anyone do this and why would anyone ever want to buy this for themselves?
This is where I could go on about how this industry has actually been around dating right back to the 16th and 17th century Europe where rings and brooches were set with gold, black and white enamel heads or skulls where they served as a reminder of the inevitability of death. Instead I try to give some real life examples to help them understand why I’m so passionate about what I do so if you’re sitting back with a cuppa reading this I ask you to keep in mind your own life’s memories and experiences and which one’s you’d love to be able to hold onto.
Yes I craft with DNA, and that in itself can be weird to some but whether using breastmilk, hair, placenta, umbilical stump, pet fur or cremation ash i’m turning someone's moment from their life into something they can hold and cherish for...well….today tomorrow and always. (see what i did there?)
One day I'm crafting a bead with breastmilk and the hair of each child that this mummas body grew and breasts nourished. A bead that for this Mum oozes nothing but pride and unconditional love and a trophy given to herself to show just how bad ass she truly is.
The next day I may be crafting a bead or ring using the hair of a 21 year old son, killed after an innocent night out with friends when the night took a sudden turn and this mother was forced to plan the funeral of her son but wasn’t ready to let him go and wanted to keep a piece of him with her as she went through the grieving process.
Sadly there have been many days where I've crafted with a loved ones ashes. A bride whose father was lost many years ago added to a crystal that will hang from her bouquet will now lead her down the aisle giving her a way to fulfil that childhood dream she thought she’d never be able to feel. Not the same as being arm in arm but a literal piece of him with her as it should have been.
Maybe a small display heart for grandchildren to help them understand that their grandmother won't ever be able to hug them close again but that it’s their turn to hug and squeeze her.
Another day I’m crafting with no DNA at all but the importance just as significant as if I were. The initials MR & MRS using the sand they were standing on as they became husband and wife. Sometimes it’s MR & MR or MRS & MRS, no matter the combination these keepsakes are truly unique, a keepsake from the very moment, the very second they began their lives as a married couple.
A plaque containing our clay babies that are made to scale for each week of pregnancy from 5-13 weeks for a mother who’s been left feeling empty with nothing to show for each time she saw those 2 little lines indicating she was finally pregnant only to hear the words “I’m sorry but it appears there’s no heartbeat” a few weeks later.
You see, what I do is so much more than the keepsakes I handmake. It’s the physical version of the happiest memory or of the lowest moment of people lives. I’m giving people the chance to celebrate the achievements in life that to others seem small and insignificant, until you’re the mum sleep deprived and up at 4am, 5am, 6am and so on breastfeeding a sick or teething baby. Or wanting something to hold onto a loved one just that little bit longer as you walk the path of grief.
As you sit here reading this, how many moments from your own life have come to mind where you find yourself thinking “I wish I knew about this when….?”
If you have a moment in time you’d like to be able to hold onto please contact us today and let’s create you the perfect keepsake to treasure.
Today Tomorrow & Always is for mothers, daughters, sisters and wives that have a moment in time they wish they could revisit, Today Tomorrow & Always can take those memories and turn them into something to hold and allow them to be cherished each and every day.
Unlike other DNA companies we ensure our waiting times are low, keeping in touch with you throughout your keepsake journey and ensuring top quality keepsakes to be cherished for Today Tomorrow & Always.
