Susan Tereba: Bridging Cultures Through Wearable Art
In the heart of Bali, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with artistic innovation, Susan Tereba has been crafting her legacy for over three decades. As the visionary behind World on a String, Susan has created a unique niche in the world of jewelry design, one that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Bali while pushing the boundaries of wearable art.
A Serendipitous Journey
Our journey with Susan began in the jam-packed tents of the Tucson Gem Show. Amidst the glitter and sparkle of countless stones and jewelry pieces, Susan's creations stood out - not just for their beauty, but for the palpable sense of story and soul they carried. Each pendant, each intricate carving seemed to whisper tales of distant lands and ancient wisdom.
Intrigued by the depth of her work and drawn by her warm, inviting presence, Connie and I knew we had to learn more. I had walked past her booth for over 25 years, and this was the first time I was drawn in and couldn't stop touching. It was years of appreciation and gratitude for this level of artistic work that culminated in hours at her booth. and Susan's invitation to visit her studio in Bali felt like more than just a business opportunity - it was a call to adventure, a chance to peek behind the curtain of true artisanal craftsmanship.
The Heart of Bali
Stepping into Susan's world in Bali is like entering a realm where time moves differently. Here, in this island known as the "Land of the Gods," Susan has found her muse and her home. Since 1990, when World on a String was born, she has immersed herself in the magical Balinese culture, allowing it to infuse every aspect of her work.
Susan doesn't see herself merely as a designer or a business owner. Instead, she describes her role as that of an orchestra conductor, guiding and harmonizing the talents of local Balinese artisans - carvers, beaders, metalsmiths, painters, and stone setters. This collaborative approach not only results in stunning pieces of jewelry but also helps preserve and promote traditional Balinese craftsmanship.
The Alchemy of Creation
Watching Susan and her team at work is a lesson in patience, skill, and cultural respect. Each piece begins as a spark of inspiration - perhaps from a dream, a meditation, or an architectural element that caught Susan's eye during her travels. This seed of an idea is then nurtured through a meticulous process:
- Design: Susan sketches her vision, capturing the essence of the story she wants to tell.
- Material Selection: The production manager, Becol, carefully selects and prepares the materials - be it fossilized mammoth tusk, jet, bone, tagua nut, exotic woods, or precious stones.
- Carving: Skilled carvers bring the design to life, a process that can take days or even weeks depending on the complexity of the piece.
- Painting: For painted bone pieces, a master Balinese painter applies vibrant colors, infusing each item with 'taksu' - the Balinese concept of spirit and aliveness.
- Assembly: The final step involves creating the actual jewelry piece, with Susan's long-time beader, Suarni, expertly stringing and assembling the components.
What struck us most during our visit was the deep respect for Balinese culture that permeates every aspect of the creative process. Work schedules flex around important ceremonies and cultural events, acknowledging that these traditions are the very heartbeat of the art being created.
More Than Jewelry
Susan's creations are more than just beautiful adornments - they are wearable stories, bridges between cultures, and talismans of the spirit. Each piece carries with it a piece of Bali, a touch of Susan's vision, and the collective energy of the artisans who brought it to life.
