(PRESS RELEASE) Rhonda Jacobson of Cumberland Diamond Exchange, Smyrna, GA, won the original artwork titled “New York State of Mind,” painted by Christopher Slowinski, founder and owner of Christopher Designs. In response to her win, Rhonda shared, “In my opinion, when you obtain an original piece of art, you also receive a piece of the artist’s soul – a true treasure. That is the greatest gift of all! I knew Christopher was a talented jewelry designer, but I’m amazed at what a gifted artist he is as well. I can’t wait to hang this gorgeous New York skyline in our store and share the Christopher Designs story with all of our customers that come in.
Original oil painting entitled “New York State of Mind”, is oil on canvas and measures 30” X 30”. The piece was painted by the designer himself, Christopher Slowinski and is an homage to lower Manhattan in New York City. The scene depicts the juxtaposition of the old and new showing the architectural details of the storied Brooklyn Bridge next to the recently completed One World Trade Center. Slowinski used a painterly technique in pastel shades of yellow, pink and blue.
Drawing took place at the Christopher Designs booth at JCK Las Vegas and the painting was shipped to winner in Georgia on Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2019.
Draw was open to all retailers who attended JCK who made and kept their appointment with the designer brand.
Family Legacy, New Chapter: How Wilkerson Turns 89 Years of History Into Future Success
After 89 years of serving the Albany community, Harold Finkle Your Jeweler faced a pivotal decision. For third-generation owner Justin Finkle, the demanding hours of running a small business were taking precious time away from his young family. "After 23 years, I decided this was the time for me," Finkle explains. But closing a business with nearly nine decades of inventory and customer relationships isn't something easily managed alone.
Wilkerson's comprehensive approach transformed this challenging transition into a remarkable success story. Their strategic planning handled everything from advertising and social media to inventory management and staffing — elements that would overwhelm most jewelers attempting to navigate a closing sale independently.
The results speak volumes. "Wilkerson gave us three different tiers of potential goals," Finkle notes. "We've reached that third tier, that highest goal already, and we still have two weeks left of the sale." The partnership didn't just meet financial objectives—it exceeded them ahead of schedule.
