About Us
Shi means "poetic expression" in Chinese. With the elegance of poetry,
our custom fashion accessories combine classic beauty and innovative design, resulting
in a fusion of style and substance. Our inspiration comes from a desire to create
something new from the history, culture, texture and colour of design on fabric.
Each piece of jewellery comes alive and tells a story in itself. Our mission is
to build a vibrant, innovative and abundant accessory design company that nourishes
our need for creativity while consciously building lifestyle and community.
Shi Studio began in 2004 as a collaborative enterprise between designers Cory
Judge and Honor Cienska, who together developed a line of fashion accessories based
on the singular idea of framing luscious Chinese silks under gleaming glass. Starting
small at local markets and outdoor festivals, Shi has grown to occupy space in
leading Canadian retail outlets and is a reliable presence at many of the country's
top shows. The company has evolved and grown and is looking forward through the
eyes of Cory Judge as owner and designer. Cory is dedicated to working together
with the Shi team in an innovative and playful environment and the resulting accessories
reflect this in their creativity.
Owner/Designer Cory Judge
Originally from Vancouver, Cory Judge moved to Victoria to complete her undergraduate
degree in Geography and Environmental Studies. In 2001 the birth of her daughter
Shale inspired her to start her first business and begin her career as an independent
designer. With Epiphany Designs, she explored the world of stained glass, drawing
upon the traditions of the Arts and Crafts movement and the principles of Feng
Shui to create her signature panels, lamps and dragonflies. Affinity for the design
influences of Asia and her fascination with colour, light, shape and design infuse
Cory's work. With Shi Studio, she brings the techniques of stained glass art to
the fashion world. Cory believes in the transformative power of beauty and is passionate
about facilitating self expression through fashion. With the energy and enthusiasm
of Cory Judge, the horizons of this dynamic company continue to expand.
About Our Team
Associate Designer
Kyla Hubbard
Kyla is the inspirational force behind the leather design
and handcrafted leather production of Shi Studio. Her skills as a writer,
artist and general problem solver have been invaluable on many occasions.
She is also currently working on her own fusion of stained glass and bicycle part
art with
Cyclona Designs and is thrilled
to be in her new home studio full time.
Shi Craftsman
Mark Laver
Mark is the He in Shi. He is a dedicated artist who has shown his paintings across
Canada. Lending his skills to Shi allows for maximum flexibility in his creative
life and as a father of three. He works in tandem with his wife and lovely assistant,
Kristyn Laver.
Studio Assistant
M. E. Smith
Meaghan is an independent recording artist and a designer for her own Trapper
Jane line of clothing and accessories. She is also a bee keeper, a seamstress
for an indie clothing shop, and mother of two.
Local Sales Manager
Denise Phillips
Denise brings her clear, grounded energy and strong organizational skills to
Shi Studio. With her keen presence, she creates a genuine and comfortable market
experience at shows and fairs around BC. She is dedicated to her family and is
a strong and loving member of her local community.
Studio Coordinator
Maria Middleton
Maria has a rich background in design and jewelry. She brings to Shi Studio
both her tremendous insight into the ancient designs that form the basis
of fashion jewelry and her expertise in working with semi-precious beads.
Maria's life of travel and varied careers in interior design, as a painter,
owner of a successful craft
business and retail manager of a high-end gem and bead shop lend
wonderful experience to all who work with her.
Craftswoman
Brenda McRobbie
Brenda has been working professionally as a glass
and textile artist for over 25 years. Her passions have
always included fabric, leather and glass and she has also worked extensively
with lighting. Her keen eye for detail, super-fine dexterity and genius
for problem solving makes Brenda a treasured and irreplaceable part of
the Shi Studio team.
Shi Studio's Co-Founder
Honor Cienska
Honor was the Co-Founder of Shi Studio. She has designed and sold accessories
for over a decade, developing a sharp intuition for knowing what
people want. Her deep awareness of motif and pattern found rich expression
in the development of Shi Studio in her three years as designer and co-owner.
