Your works are exquisite and embrace all the qualities of elegance and rhythm. Can you explain the constructing process? Do you work alone, do you have a studio?
I was very fortunate to have learned Jewelry design at Central School of Art and design in London, England where their focus was on teaching to follow the theme of one’s interest, explore all possibility and develop design fully.
The process of my work is very much involved with developing ideas, drawings, playing with paper models and metal samples. Using paper and fabric pressing to create texture on metal and mat finish are my preference.
All my work are created from sheet & wire of metal and hand made with no castings. The equipment I use includes various hand tools, milling machine, flux soldering machine, etc. to produce my work. I have a studio where I work alone to create my designs and make my jewelry.
Earrings, 2011, Sterling silver, pearl, 1 1/3 (L) – View her works
The continuous forms and elements of nature seem to be your inspiration, but have you ever tried to do something more rigid, or geometrical?
In the early stage of my career I tried to work on geometric designs, however I found myself drawn to the themes of nature especially the rhythm, movement, texture, power, stillness and so many variations of form and pattern of water.
What can you tell us about the theme of your works and the materials you use?
The theme of my work has been mainly water, including ocean, river, stream, waterfall and lake. I work mostly in sterling silver accented with 18K. Yellow gold. I like the visual effect of the combination. I occasionally work with 18K white gold. Many of my work include pearls, precious & semi-precious stones.
Necklace, 2011, Sterling Silver, 18” (L) – View her works
The market for your jewelries consists in elegant women. Where do you sell your pieces? Do you think that exhibiting them helps you work to be more recognizable?
Unless I am working on a commissioned pieces, I do not think of my market. My ideas come to me naturally. If I were to focus only on certain demographics, I feel that it would stifle my creativity. I sell my work at Keiko Gallery in Boston MA. And I do yearly exhibitions in Tokyo, Japan. Due to these exposures I have gained many customers who look forward to my work and continue to return often to see my new creations.
What’s the most important advice you can give to a young artist?
If you follow your passion and pursue your dream, everything will come true.
Broach, 2011, Sterling silver, 18K gold, pearl, 2 3/4” x 1/2” x 3/8” – View her works
By Vasi Hirdo.
Published in Ceramics Now Magazine Issue 1.
Visit Keiko Gallery’s website.
