Leslie Granthon

"I was born in Lima. My mother sews, knits and embroiders, and I have always been interested in art. As a child, I was always painting and drawing, so it was natural choice to study design. After that, I studied jewelry design and crafting at a specialized jewelry institute.

"I've been designing jewelry since 2003, but my fascination with art and crafts has been in me for as long as I can remember. Many times I'll be playing with my hands with some kind of material, and eventually I end up with a new design. I've always been pulling things apart and then putting them back together — I'll even fix electrical appliances, but I'd much rather create new designs.

"To me, making jewelry offers me a sanctuary away from the world where I can do what I want. My motivation comes from my love of art and three-dimensional pieces. I love to be able to touch what I create in my mind. I just want to be able to transmit what I feel — the inspiration that surges

spontaneously from touching a metal. To me, my craft is like a magical experience that allows me to express what I feel through silver and gems.

"I have exhibited my work in Peru as well as in the Peruvian Embassy in Washington, D.C. You are safe, warm and friendly portal in which I can exhibit my creations, and where shoppers can view them expecting the guarantee of quality."