Spot the Designer - Alina Bancila/ Romania

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

From a very young age, I was inspired by my father's work as a glass artist and was fascinated watching the glassblowing process in his workshop. I started attending art classes in school where I discovered my passion for visual art. I pursued this interest further by studying at the National University of Arts in Romania. 

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

I have always had an appreciation for jewelry and was influenced by watching my stylish mother skillfully put together unique fashion ensembles. Having studied jewelry design at the University of Fine Arts in Bucharest, I enjoyed experimenting with various metals and production techniques. Through hands-on practice of different crafting methods, my interest in creating one-of-a-kind pieces developed.

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

As a young designer, I gained valuable experience working on numerous pieces in varying styles and materials. While each project offered learning experiences, I don't have one standout work to highlight as they all contributed to my artistic development. 

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

To recharge my creativity, I enjoy spending time with friends experiencing live music performances and cultural events. I also pursue interests such as motorcycle riding and tattoo art to expose myself to new skills and perspectives that help fuel my designs. Exploring diverse interests allows me to approach my craft with fresh inspiration.

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

For me, tradition and contemporary design go hand in hand. Growing up surrounded by classic crafts inspired me to both honor time-tested techniques and push boundaries with fresh ideas. Studying heritage skills provides a foundation, yet true creativity emerges blending legacy and innovation. By selectively combining signature elements from various origins, I produce one-of-a-kind pieces that feel relevant to today. Appreciating artistic and manufacturing history is what empowers me to thoughtfully move conversations forward through my own perspective. I see the past and present as partners that jointly fuel my creative vision.

Is there a self-portrait piece that speaks most about you? 

While I create each piece as a unique work of art, every design offers insight into my perspective in some way. Rather than a single self-portrait, I see my portfolio as a continually evolving reflection of my interests, experiences and aesthetic vision at various stages. As a jewelry artist crafting one-of-a-kind pieces, I pour a bit of my soul into everything I make. No two express exactly the same idea, yet common threads weave through all of them representing my ongoing study of techniques, inspirations and willingness to experiment. Each new design challenges me to push boundaries while honoring craftsmanship, resulting in a body of work that documents my creative progression. Ultimately, all of my pieces speak to who I am as an artist at a given moment in time, just as my perspective will continue sharpening with future creations.

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

 While I'm proud of the work I've done with  silver, brass,gold and carving wax I'm always looking to experiment with new materials. Natural objects, industrial scrap or lesser used metals could inspire new designs. Rather than any one material, I want to challenge myself creatively by combining elements in fresh ways. Continual learning keeps my craft engaging and pushes my artistry forward. Whether ceramic, steel or something else sparks my curiosity next, I'm excited to see where new substrates could lead my work. My drive is discovery through fearless play, not sticking to any single medium.

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

 The pandemic brought challenges as client interactions shifted online. However, I saw it as an opportunity to focus intensely on my craft. I spent extended time working solo in my workshop, experimenting freely without distractions. This let me refine techniques and conceptualize innovative designs. While I missed seeing customers in person, the solitude fueled creative problem-solving. Overall, it was a productive period that strengthened my technical skills and artistic vision. I look forward to sharing the fresh perspectives I gained with clients as we reconnect face to face.

How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?

 I see jewelry design always evolving as technology and ideas change over time. People will continue putting their personal styles into their pieces as self-expression stays important. Designers may push limits and try new things as society does too. Different artists mixing mediums could also impact looks. At the same time, old techniques will still matter combined with fresh approaches. Constantly trying new stuff and reflecting on culture will shape the art form going forward. The future is unwritten which is what lets it keep moving in new directions. As a maker, that kind of open-ended potential is what keeps things exciting.

Find more about the designer Alina Bancila