Christian Retailing

Central symbols of faith given a new twist Print Email
Written by Rhonda Sholar   
Monday, 08 December 2008 04:47 PM America/New_York

Rotational design uniquely combines cross and ichthus fish emblems

A unique artist interpretation of two symbols of the Christian faith is the foundation for several companies’ gift, jewelry and home décor lines.

Jac Cavness, a Texas high school art teacher, is a sculptor and the creator of a series of Eyevolver Studio sculptures that undergo a rotational transformation from one Christian design into an entirely new one.
Cavness’ first design in the marketplace is CrossFish, which Roman has co-branded as “Dimensions of Christ.” Roman introduced the line in its January markets, but production delays pushed shipping back to June.

Based on initial retailer response, the company added three new SKUs. The existing line consists of a 6-inch figure, wood photo frame, desk cube, musical glitterdome, ornament in gold or silver with easel display, cell phone dangle, bookmark, key chain, women’s pendants in gold- or silver-plated metal, men’s silver-plated pendant, gold- or silver-plated earrings, a glass ornament ball, a plastic and metal bracelet, and gold- or silver-plated bracelets.

January introductions will include a lapel pin in gold-plate and silver-plate finishes ($8.50), gift-boxed dangling earrings in gold-plate and silver-plate finishes ($12), a gift-boxed pendant in gold-plate and silver-plate finishes ($16.50), a combination of art glass and metal dangle ornaments ($9.50) and a CrossFish figure in velvet bag ($8.50).

The “Dimensions of Christ: CrossFish” collection “offers a unique presentation of the story of the life of Christ ... the hardship of Christ’s life on Earth and also celebrates the glory of His resurrection and eternal life in heaven,” said Jeanne Acheson, director of product development for the giftware brand for Roman.

In a 90-degree rotation, the piece changes from a vision of the cross, when viewed from the front, to the ichthus fish mark when turned on the side.

Carson Home Accents is licensed to introduce a coordinated line of Eyevolver windchimes and windspinners with the CrossFish design, beginning in January. Current licensees include collectible company Mr. Christmas for mechanical musical ornaments and jewelry maker Stuller for fine jewelry in 14-karat and 10-karat gold and sterling silver.

For further information on these licensed products, call Roman at 630-705-4600, or visit www.roman.com; call Carson Home Accents at 800-888-1918, or visit www.carsonhomeaccents.com; call Stuller at 800-877-7777, or visit www.stuller.com; or call Mr. Christmas at 800-467-9627, or visit www.mrchristmas.com.