ABOUT
Artist Bio
Bella's Chainmail, founded by Bella Carroccio, a native of Pawtucket, is driven by a mission to enrich our community through the creation of bespoke family heirlooms. Utilizing locally sourced materials like stainless steel, solder, and ethically sourced bones, each piece is imbued with a narrative of resilience and individuality. It is their belief that legacy transcends traditional notions of family heirlooms; and is about forging new stories that resonate across generations. In their work, they explore the transformative power of materials: where the fusion of stainless steel with bones, or the presence of the wearer, imbues each piece with a softened beauty and effortless grace. Through Bella's Chainmail, they aspire to craft not just jewelry, but timeless artifacts that celebrate personal expression and the enduring spirit of community.
Born in Pawtucket, RI, into a family with few traditional heirlooms but a deep love for gaudy, extravagant jewelry, I began working with chainmail in 2023 to create pieces that speak to chosen family and reimagine what an heirloom can be. As a genderqueer artist, I seek community through my practice, and one of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been gifting my queer family pieces meant to be handed down through generations of chosen family. I extend this commitment to community by teaching chainmail classes at The Steelyard in Providence, RI.