John and Lauri Maeder Weave Stunning Art Amidst ‘Desert Lace’

In the picturesque town of Jerome, Arizona, a unique artistic endeavor is redefining how we view prickly pear cacti. John and Lauri Maeder, the creators behind Desert Lace Studio, have transformed these seemingly lifeless plants into exquisite jewelry and art pieces, utilizing the intricate patterns known as “desert lace.”

Holding a cactus specimen, John described how the dead pads degrade and conceal the fascinating structure within. “These individual cells communicate chemically, guiding the plant’s growth and flowering,” he noted, weaving together art and science.

For over a decade, the Maeders have delved into a secretive process to extract the plant’s outer layers, resulting in art that has garnered recognition at venues like the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. This journey began during what they call “that fateful trip” to the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott. There, they marveled at a hat made from prickly pear worn by historic figure Sharlot Hall during a significant election in 1925.

Inspired by the hat, the couple cut cactus pads from their yard to emulate the unique design, sparking a 23-month experiment marked by challenges and personal sacrifices. “We suffered for our art,” John joked, recounting the injuries sustained from glochids and thorns. Since then, they’ve opted for more sustainable practices, obtaining cactus cuttings from friends due to regulations against harvesting from public lands.

After successfully replicating Hall’s hat, the Maeders expanded their horizons to create various decorative items. Their participation in the 2018 Arizona State Fair was a turning point. Their entries received multiple awards, propelling their recognition in the local art scene.

With each award came greater opportunities. Their work soon caught the attention of Arizona Highways magazine, leading to a surge in orders from gift shops and galleries. The COVID-19 pandemic shifted their focus, prompting them to explore local markets rather than distant trade shows. This shift not only cut travel costs but also allowed them to invest in better equipment for producing sophisticated designs.

Now, with a production assistant on board, the Maeders focus on crafting an array of items, from jewelry to home décor made of copper and sterling silver. Today, their ambition extends beyond their studio, as they work to launch the Artists’ Village art fair in Old Town Cottonwood. Featuring 39 regional artists, the fair prioritizes a focused artistic experience without distractions like live music or food vendors.

The Artists’ Village is set to take place at the Old Town Activity Park from October 11 to 13, 2023, promoting local talent and community engagement. As they prepare for this event, the Maeders remain dedicated to their craft, celebrating the beauty of Arizona’s natural resources through their innovative art.