"Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility." --Saint Augustine

I designed this piece initially with creating an interesting silhouette for the piece, which inspired its given name. As I contemplated the word 'cradle' and began to parse its meaning, a more developed appreciation began to take form. A cradle also references the framework or support upon which a foundation rests. I began reflecting on the value of beginning with strong foundations in life. Because we tend to reverse engineer our goals (beginning first with the end goal in mind), our excitement can cause us to want to shortcut or abandon the beginning parts that look least like our vision. Having a clear picture of our objectives is important, yet nurturing the beginning stages is essential.

May the Cradle Collection serve as a reminder to appreciate and intentionally nurture every stage of development, especially our foundations.

-Shayba