About The Artist

M. Hisae [hee-sigh] is the jewelry portfolio of California-born, Northwest Connecticut-based artist Michelle Hisae Nakata-Murray. She is of Japanese, Slovenian, and Polish descent.

Michelle's practice centers around creating a visual and material form of ancestral language, tapping into both the known and lost parts of her lineage. Michelle's work is an exploration into a multi-cultural existence, her continuous spiritual study, feminine-masculine inquiries, and the abundant miracles in the cycles in nature. She sees jewelry as a powerful tool in honoring desire and utilizing beauty to heal wounds, recommit to oneself, and invite new visions of what's possible.

"My sense of purpose lies in walking the path of seeking beauty and igniting a deep and magnetic reverence for self through jewelry. I love creating these little worlds of joy and beauty to accompany you throughout your days. I know that these pieces carry stories and meaning and sentiment. I know that in any moment, you can look down at a ring on your finger and feel just enough to lift you up and change your state of mind for better. I don’t wear jewelry for others, I wear it for me. And in my own experience, jewelry has the power to transform. I’m interested in how jewelry can impact you emotionally, mentally, and spiritually and be a catalyst for healing. I’m interested in how jewelry and beauty can heighten the love, appreciation, and reverence you have for yourself."

Portrait by Dana Jensen