Filipino Canadian artist aims to bring magic, folklore to her jewelry 

Growing up in rural Annapolis Valley, Theresa Capell always knew she wanted to follow her creative nature. However, as a Filipino Canadian, she frequently ran into stereotypes.  

“ ‘Oh, you should be a nurse. Filipinos are nurses,’ ” she says people would tell her. Or ” ‘You should get married; you are a woman.’ ”  

Capell says she felt a disconnect between who she is and perceptions of her culture in a predominantly white community. Now, through her jewelry, she has been able to celebrate that culture through her jewelry brand Miss Foxine. Capell says she is trying to create something magical. 

“When I create jewelry, I love celebrating beauty and the power of adornment. Jewelry can really adorn you through any adventure through life. So, Miss Foxine is the embodiment of change. My pieces are inspired by folklore and fairytales,” she said. 

Inspired by folklore  

Capell relies on her manager and assistant Melissa Bradley to ensure a smooth workflow.  

She said folklore supplied the name for the line of jewelry.

Bradley said, “In Japanese culture, there is a story of a nine-tailed fox woman who can change her form and protect those around her. The Japanese fox spirit — called a Kitsune — was the inspiration for the namesake. They were said to possess superior intelligence, long life, and magical powers. They also have been known to take on the form of a beautiful woman. Miss Foxine (a mix of fox and nine) was developed to embody natural magic, durability and long-lasting items, and goddess-like beauty.” 

For Capell, jewelry is like a signet, an emblem of who you are, showing your identity and protecting you through life in your journey. 

Sustainability 

She uses a lot of fresh organic pearls that are ethically sourced from the Philippines. She says she is inspired by the beauty that surrounds the Philippines. She also uses real butterflies from conservatories. 

“Knowing that our Earth is precious, I repurpose butterfly wings that I get from conservatories across Canada and the States after they naturally pass.” she said. Her pieces are handmade in Halifax. 

The world stage 

Capell undertook a bachelor degree in fine arts in jewelry design and metalsmithing at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. Since then, she has displayed her designs all over Nova Scotia and beyond. 

Hers is the journey of a small-town girl to the glamour of Hollywood. 

 “I’ve been to L.A., I’ve been to the Golden Globes,” she said, “I’ve been to the American Music Awards backstage to showcase my work.” 

She says she has also been featured in Elle Magazine and Amazing Canadian Fashion magazine, and on CTV News and Global News.  

Bradley helps in selling pieces at the Halifax Seaport market while Capell attends craft shows. 

Bradley says she sells both 925 sterling silver and gold-filled pieces with options for organic freshwater pearls, crystals (cubic zirconia or Swarovski), or plain designs, from everyday wear to bridal. 

She says Miss Foxine is a luxury brand due to her use of high-quality materials and unique designs. Her products range from $32 to around $600 for handmade pieces, and she also sells vintage engagement rings (online only) for up to $2,300. 

“Her jewelry is uplifting; they are beautiful pieces. I love beauty,” said Corrina Brown, who bought some of the jewelry at the market. 

William MacNeil, another marketgoer, said, “They are all beautiful craftsmanship. It is understandable why women love them. I am getting it as a present.” 

“It really took a lot for me to push myself and follow my dreams,” said Capell. “I knew in my heart and soul that I wanted to do this and inspire others. You can be empowered no matter your background,” she said. 

She says it is important for her to showcase her work wherever possible. She wants to have pop-up shops where she can get the human connection.  

This week, she is attending craft shows in Prince Edward Island.