Spot the Designer - Karin van Paassen / Netherlands

What did you want to be when you were a child?

I wanted to become a nurse, although I was a very creative child. But in the sixties, living in the countryside, it was uncommon to choose for art education.

 When have you started creating jewelry? How did this passion come about?

I started creating jewelry as a professional in 2013. The passion has always been there, but fortunately I have always been able to express my love for jewelry in my work as a curator. I worked with (inter)national designers and organized jewelry exhibitions and workshops in the Netherlands and abroad.

What was your first project or significant piece for you and from what point of view?

My first jewelry (2015) were two body-related objects, inspired by my traveling’s abroad and my love for natural materials.

 How do you charge your batteries? What other passions and creative interests do you have?

I charge my batteries with traveling to foreign countries, preferably in Asia, listen to music, visit museums, galleries, art festivals, read books, play a role in different boards, etc. l also charge my batteries by working as a curator and do research on new ideas and projects. I am very curious. My passion is art, design, jewelry and fashion.

 What does the connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design mean to you ?

If you mean craft and a traditional way of making products by manufacturing than my answer is: yes that means a lot to me, the connection is very important. You cannot separate modern design and knowledge of traditional ways of manufacturing from each other. We need the knowledge and it is very important to keep teaching this to students.

 Which material have you not yet used is a temptation and a challenge for you?

It is not about other materials, but I want to become better in making special connections between unconventional materials.

 How was the pandemic period for you as a jewelry designer?

It was o.k. I had enough time for making new works and do some experiments. That was great!

 How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?

Very positive, exciting and of course it is impossible to imagine life without it. Jewelry has always been there and will always exist and evolve. It is a way for people to express themselves, for both the wearer and the maker.

Find more about the designer Karin van Paassen