Jeweller’s environmental one-of-a-kind pieces are a hit

Tara Cassidy is making art from objects many people would overlook.

The young businesswoman opened La Garza in St George, a place she said is fast “becoming an artists’ mecca”.

Ms Cassidy added she is excited about the revitalization happening in the old town. 

So what was her inspiration? “When I first started, I began thinking about how I could merge the essence of Bermuda into everything I was creating. 

“That is how each collection has come to fruition and what guides me in searching for new ideas. 

“I’m passionate about Bermuda-made goods and I hope for La Garza to become an art collective in the coming year, holding workshops and giving local artists a space to come together, be productive and sell their goods. 

“I’m in love with this island and addicted to making things, so this is a dream job come true. I look forward to giving others the opportunity to start their own businesses.” 

Every piece at La Garza is handcrafted, often with material picked up from Bermuda’s beaches. 

The works are then re-imagined,into a one-of-a-kind piece.

Ms Cassidy is a firm believer in fair trade and sustainable practices.

Items that she uses are never harvested. 

She also donates five per cent from many purchases to charitable causes, such as Reef Watch “in an attempt to insure the protection of Bermuda’s environment and inspire awareness within Bermuda’s cultural and social fabric.”

She came up with the name of her store from Juan de Bermúdez  flagship La Garza.  She added that La Garza or La Garça translates into “The Heron”.

“I chose this name due to its rich history and because I consider the Heron to be my spirit animal, reminding me to stand calm but alert; to walk and take flight with grace; to cement my connection and responsibility to the environment and the wellbeing of our life cycle.”