A multifaceted studio focused on in-house jewelry, design objects, and curated goods based in Los Angeles, California.
Highlow Jewelry
Highlow Jewelry combines new classics with art through personal adornment. Balancing inspiration from art history with a modern point of view, Highlow celebrates the joining of beauty and utility and is devoted to delivering wearable art through jewelry design.
Highlow’s collection of jewelry is ever-evolving as Los Angeles-based designer Sonya Gallardo’s sophisticated artistry is ignited through the study of art mediums and materials that pull her in. Past collections have highlighted vintage deadstock, clay, fine metals, and glass, with designs featuring mark-making with inlays, arranging shapes with sculptural fundamentals in mind, and painterly applications of color on glass.
Sonya studied Painting and Textile Design at California College of the Arts and has previously worked with notable art organizations, galleries, and artists. After completing an art residency in NYC, Sonya began to experiment with ways to continue her art practice, leading her to create her first jewelry collection as a self-taught designer. She quickly received interest, and this response inspired her to pursue jewelry design as her primary art form.
Established in 2012 and with a studio in Torrance, CA, Highlow derives its namesake from the study of the classical distinction between high and low art. Sonya believes that art and craft are better together (instead of fine art being above craft) and continues to blend process, functionality, refinement, and meaning as the cornerstone of her designs. Her hope is that her work feels inspired and in turn inspires the viewer, wearer, and customer alike.
Highlow Gift Shop
“Para esos momentos especiales” is the guiding purpose at Highlow Gift Shop in Torrance, California. The Spanish phrase translates to “For those special moments” and it’s exactly what owner Sonya Gallardo is ready to fulfill when customers step inside her small but focused shop.
Highlow houses a carefully selected group of indie businesses that inspire Sonya – from pretty pantry staples to cool home goods. The beautifully edited selection at Highlow is a clear reflection of Sonya’s 20-year experience in retail as well as her lifelong admiration for small business.
This Latina-owned gift shop is here as a direct result of the pandemic. Sonya lost her job and immediately realized she had nothing to lose but to finally create the dream she’s held onto since college. Highlow opened in November 2021 and is independently funded using Sonya’s own savings, an SBA grant and help from family and friends.
As a South Bay kid, Sonya is proud to be surrounded by a legacy of shops that have stood the test of time at Van Art Square (formerly Del Wee Plaza). Highlow aims to cut the confusion out of gift giving and replace it with calm clarity, giving residents a place to shop for special items at accessible price points without having to leave Torrance.
Visit Us —
2140 Artesia Blvd. Unit J
Torrance, CA 90504