Yelena and I met at Art Center College of Design, where we both studied fine art and critical theory. In class, Yelena was extremely intimidating (even at 5' 3") and scary smart.  There is a lot of brain power packed into that small frame. At the time, I think she was one of the youngest people ever accepted to Art Center.  A Russian-born artist and designer, Yelena has channeled her love of color and texture, as well as her passion for miniature art into designing jewelry. 

The company she has founded, Ole Lukoe, named after the mysterious God of Dreams character from H.C. Andersen's tales has grown into an eclectic collection of versatile and sophisticated designs, which seemlessly integrate form and function.  In addition to being a jewelry designer, Yelena is an animator on the Family Guy.