Lustre and Pearl

28.0 x 4.5 x 0.5 cm

otoliths, leather, feathers, resin and gold plated materials

Becky Lang creates one-of-a-kind earrings using naturally harvested otoliths, left unaltered to preserve their unique form and character. Each otolith is individually examined to guide design. The otolith is set in a resin mold as the centrepiece, while leather is cut and iridescent feathers are arranged to create contrast and harmony. Once the feathers are secured, the otolith is placed, and gold-plated components are added as finishing touches. The process emphasizes the inherent beauty of the otolith, enhancing its natural lustre and integrating organic and crafted materials into a balanced, wearable composition.

Becky Lang is a Métis artist and commercial fisherwoman based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Originally from Saskatchewan, she moved north in 2008 and has since developed an artistic practice rooted in traditional land-based living and her work on Great Slave Lake. Raised harvesting from the land through fishing, hunting, and berry picking, Lang continues these practices today, guided by sustainability and respect for natural materials.

Since 2017, Lang has created one-of-a-kind earrings using otoliths, the inner ear bones of fish, which she harvests herself through commercial fishing. Composed of calcium carbonate and formed in layered growth, otoliths record the life of a fish and are left unaltered, allowing their natural form to guide each design. Paired with materials such as sterling silver, copper, gold-plated components, feathers, leather, and sealskin, her work explores the dialogue between organic and refined elements.

Lang's jewellery is material-driven, place-based, and rooted in Métis values, offering wearable pieces that connect craft, culture, adornment, resourcefulness, and the environment.