Behind the Craft: Meet the Missouri Artist Illuminating Our Gallery
At Parkville Frame Gallery, we’re deeply committed to championing local artists whose creativity, craftsmanship, and vision enrich our community. In our ongoing “Behind the Brush” series, we shine a light on those whose work transforms our space and inspires every visitor.
Today, we’re honored to introduce Susan Breen Silvy, a Kansas City–area gem whose mastery in metal clay, lampwork glass, and bead art brings both sophistication and warmth to The Fusion exhibition.
An Artist Rooted in Creativity & Community
Susan Breen Silvy has earned widespread acclaim as an award-winning artist in both metal clay and lampwork bead jewelry. She holds a revered place in the International Metal Clay Master’s Registry and served as past president of the International Society of Glass Beadmakers, exemplifying both her creative skill and leadership in her field.
Her work has been showcased from the River Market Regional Exhibition close to home, to the prestigious Silver Accessories Exhibition in Tokyo, Japan. In 2012, she earned second place in the coveted Saul Bell Design Award for metal clay craftsmanship.
Crafting with Tactile Beauty & Technical Precision
What sets Susan’s work apart is the seamless fusion of artistry and technology. Her creations—whether stunning beads, intricate metal components, or glass vessels—may appear delicate, but they demand rigorous technique and precision, qualities she brings to every piece.
Her art has received top industry honors, including
First-place wins in Lapidary Journal’s Bead Arts Award, Bead & Button’s Bead Dreams Award, and Embellishment’s Gleaming Treasures competition.
In 2011, she was profiled as the featured artist in Art Jewelry Magazine’s “A Conversation with Susan Breen Silvy”.
Her work also appears in influential books like Art Jewelry Today, Color on Metal Clay, 500 Beads, The Complete Book of Glass Beadmaking, and Formed of Fire.
Teaching, Mentoring & Expanding the Craft
Susan’s influence extends beyond her art studio. A lifelong Kansas City-area resident, she lives just outside Parkville—and shares her expertise through The Office Studio, where she teaches and hosts workshops taught by internationally recognized master artists.
Her dedication to craft education and community building echoes Parkville Frame Gallery’s mission to foster creative connections—and we are proud to feature her artistry in our gallery.
Experience Susan’s Work at Parkville Frame Gallery
Susan Breen Silvy’s pieces in The Fusion are testament to the artistry, care, and innovation she brings to every creation. Her work invites visitors to appreciate the beauty of form, the intricacy of technique, and the soul behind the craft.
We encourage you to visit our gallery in downtown Parkville and experience Susan’s captivating work firsthand—where creativity, tradition, and community converge in meaningful ways.
