Creations from the heart of nature are produced here on St Barts by a very talented local artisan. Muriel Bos’s fervent passion for her work is matched by her generosity of spirit that shines through her beautiful smile.
What is Bao St Barth?
The name Bao is derived from the baobab tree, which I greatly admired when living in the beautiful continent of Africa.
Established in 2019, Bao St Barth creates handmade jewellery inspired by the beauty of this unique island. Composed of organic materials, my imaginative creations echo the splendour of the natural environment. St Barts’ magnificent light emphasises the impressive colours of its land and seascapes, the very same colours that can be found in my jewellery.
Each piece of jewellery that I create is unique and expresses my passion for creating and for sharing. I gain genuine pleasure from seeing my creations continue their journey in the hands of others.
What initially influenced your decision to make jewellery?
I would describe myself as ‘hand-minded’, learning and developing through my hands from a very early age. I was fascinated by a broad range of creative crafts from sewing to macrame and crocheting. This urge to create re-emerged when I was pregnant with my daughter. After decorating her nursery I decided to explore the art of jewellery making. I kept the first few pieces for myself until I felt confident enough to give my creations as gifts to friends.
When I moved to The Congo in Africa in 2012, I was so impressed by the talents of the roadside artisans that I commissioned a sculptor to make my designs out of wood. My creativity rapidly evolved as I combined these pieces with other materials to make jewellery. This led me to establish my very own enterprise ‘Bao Creation’; and, in just 2 months, I produced a total of 350 unique pieces of jewellery, which I principally sold to the ex-pat community. It was fulfilling to share my work with others, while knowing that I was supporting the local artistic culture. I was driven by passionate enthusiasm, but all this would not have been possible without the encouragement of those close to me.
How did you come to be on St Barts?
After spending two years in The Congo, we were happy to return to our family and friends in France. Nevertheless, four years later, we realised that we wanted to once again experience another culture and pursue a life with more opportunities. This was made possible by my husband finding work related to the French Caribbean islands. We decided to sell everything to move to St Barts, based on the recommendation of a couple of friends already living on the island. I thoroughly enjoyed this new lifestyle, but found my office jobs unfulfilling. I yearned to work with my hands again, to develop and evolve through my creativity. It was thanks to the support of my husband and two children that I subsequently made the bold decision to start ‘Bao St Barth’.
What type of jewellery do you create?
I make jewellery for men and women of all ages, principally bracelets, earrings, rings and necklaces. I use natural materials such as pearls, stones, ceramic, wood, fabric and shells – notably Cowrie shells and Eye of St Lucia shells that bring good fortune. I also make macrame wall hangings comprising the map of St Barts.
My pieces include a touch of tropical exoticism by echoing the colours of the Caribbean sea: from turquoise, cerulean and azure to lemon, rose and lilac of its coral reefs. While nature’s shapes and textures are reflected in the pendants featuring star fish, seahorses and turtles.
Where do you source your materials?
I work with French suppliers who provide responsibly sourced materials. Not only do they supply the decorative resources but also the metals, wires, clasps, along with gift bags and wrapping materials – the presentation of my work is just as important as the gift itself. I work closely with a French artisan who produces the delicately engraved pendants out of maple wood, which I cleverly incorporate into my jewellery.
Where do you sell your creations?
I am on social media and also have a website where I can be contacted for purchases. I have taken part in the St Barts Christmas market and I also have a stand at the St Barts Market every first Sunday of the month. I meet many people at these events whose positive enthusiasm for my jewellery instils me with joy and boosts my confidence.
What message would you like to convey to the readers of Coccoloba?
I believe that everyone has the potential to be creative and should try to express this or at least pursue whatever brings them happiness. It has been a real joy sharing my story with Coccoloba readers, whom I hope to meet in the foreseeable future.
