Alex a Mano – “Alex by Hand” – couldn’t be a more appropriate company name for an artist who truly loves connecting with her materials.
Alex Sulikowski tells us she’s especially fond of metal and how it transforms with fire, softening, bending and taking shape under her hands.
“I also love my tools – especially ones used by other jewelers before me. I think about the hands that held them, the stories they created and I feel part of something bigger,” she shares.
Alex moved to the United States in 2000, but carries her varied cultural background with her – like “layers of a story that continue to unfold.”
“My Croatian and Polish roots instill in me a deep connection to craftsmanship and resilience – both of which are woven into how I approach my work,” she explains. “My Argentine upbringing, filled with color, warmth and a strong sense of community, has given me a love for nature and handmade traditions. These influences are reflected in my metalsmithing – there’s an Old World quality in my approach, a respect for traditional techniques and a passion for storytelling through jewelry. But, beyond the craft itself, my pieces are more than just adornment, as they celebrate connection, memory and personal history. My heritage has shaped how I see and value those moments, and I pour that feeling into every piece I create.”
Even during her years as an educator, her hands were never still – whether she was arranging a space or working on a creative project.
“I loved teaching, but discovered when I was creating, time seemed to disappear. Hours would pass in deep focus, my hands assembling and transforming any material that came my way,” she adds.
The moment that truly brought it all together occurred during a trip back to Argentina, when she reconnected with her childhood best friend.
“We reminisced about the tiny jewelry kiosk her family owned when we were young – and how we spent hours dreaming about having our own treasure-filled boutique. That conversation unearthed something in me, reigniting a long-buried passion. Inspired, I taught myself the art of beading and, before I knew it, took a leap of faith and opened my own jewelry store in Boston, while still working a fulltime job,” Alex shares. While running the shop for nine years, one thing became clear – she felt most alive there, creating, bringing ideas to life and sharing something meaningful with customers. It was then that she understood – art wasn’t just something she loved; it was the path she was meant to follow.
With a mix of perfect timing and new possibilities aligning, Alex and her husband, Don, moved to Charlotte in 2017.
“It was the fresh start we didn’t even know we were looking for – a blend of creativity, nature and a fast-growing community. It quickly became home, a place where we could build our life together and, for me, fully embrace my passion for metalsmithing.”
A vintage tool lover, Alex discovered Juelerye Artisan Gallery & Gifts by chance while visiting a favorite antique mall in Mooresville. While exploring downtown, she was immediately drawn to the gallery’s beautifully curated selection.
“Each piece felt intentional, elevated and full of character – exactly the kind of space I aspire to be part of!” Alex shares. “Meeting Jacque was serendipitous, as she instantly reminded me of my days as a shop owner. She has an incredible eye for artistry and a deep passion for supporting makers. I felt an instant connection and was also captivated by the sign outside her gallery: “Enter Curious, Depart Delighted.” It perfectly embodies not only the spirit of Juelerye but also the way Jacque connects with people, making them feel welcome and part of something special. I’m grateful to have my work in a space that values craftsmanship and community as much as I do.”
Alex finds inspiration in all connections – to nature, to materials and to the people who wear her jewelry. She finds fulfillment in knowing her work can bring someone joy, boost confidence or serve as a tangible reminder of something meaningful in their life. While every piece holds a story, there are a few that feel especially close to her heart. One is “The Broocket” – a brooch/locket she designed as a tribute to her parents and her own journey.
“It represents gratitude, heritage and belonging, and it’s deeply personal. It’s one of the few pieces I kept for myself. But, in truth, my favorite piece is often the one I’m about to make – the excitement of bringing something new to life never fades!”
Visit alexamano.com for more information, or reach Alex at 781.504.5705. Juelerye Artisan Gallery & Gifts is located in Mooresville at 112 S. Main Street, 704.728.0460, and at juelerye.com.
