Written by Caitlin Reclusado
We'd like to begin by introducing Rachel Moody, longtime Big Sur resident and local vendor at the Phoenix Shop! Her exquisite and elegant beadwork graces our boutique jewelry cases with beautiful pieces that sparkle in the sun. Her work is truly one-of-a-kind, incorporating abalone shells, crystals, and glass. We're proud to represent her artistry here at the shop, and excited to share a bit of her story with you in this month's letter.
Rachel's love of delicate handiwork began in her early teens, following in the footsteps of the women on her mother's side of the family. She grew up taking road trips to pow wows on the Flathead Reservation in Montana, where her mother's grandmother had deep roots.
She began making mandalas with small seed beads, and in high school designed jewelry for another artist, Lauren Rene, who had a gallery in Carmel. As she grew up, her passion grew into her owning her own business. She later helped found the Big Sur Garden Gallery, a local hub that represented over 50 other artists. At this point in her journey, she now works full-time for herself, and spends much of her time travelling and creating her stunning jewelry, while maintaining the delicate balance of tending to her art, her relationships, her health, and her home.
Finding inspiration in nature and from activities like hiking, swimming, and travelling. Rachel feels that physical activity is imperative to her process, and she finds that getting worn out from exercise helps her to sink into her work and become fully immersed in the creative flow. Nothing makes her happier than getting lost in the hues of a multitude of gems, crystals, and beads while listening to some good music, wherever she may be.
Living in Big Sur, Rachel knows what it is to weather transformation and change. She has gone through wildfires, road closures and floods and now, along with the rest of the world, a pandemic. Calling Big Sur her home hasn't always been easy, but she feels it has helped shape her into a more resilient person. One memory that sticks out to her was having to complete one of the largest beaded mobiles (16 feet!) she ever made for a client while a wildfire burned a few ridges away. But moments like that have taught her to put the disasters behind her and get grounded in her work again.
Her advice for other creatives is to follow your heart and to create whenever you can. Refine your practice by seeking out what brings you the most joy. And always remember that there's nothing like finding that flow state that cultivates happiness and leaves no room for stress, worry or depression.
Stop by the Phoenix Shop to check out the incredible work of Rachel Moody
You can also see more of her and her family’s art on their website,
Big Sur Inspirations