When I was a child, I had a strong passion for art. From a very young age, I found myself drawn to activities such as painting, sculpting, and creating jewelry using threads, beads, and small pieces of wire. Being an artist was a dream I held closely, and I invested a significant amount of time and effort into nurturing my artistic skills.
When have you started creating jewelry? How did this passion come about?
I began creating jewelry after completing high school. Following that, I pursued a bachelor's degree in graphics and worked as a graphic designer for six years. However, my lifelong dream of working in jewelry making led me to embark on a new journey. Drawing upon my previous experience in sculpting and my passion for the art form, I decided to learn the craft of jewelry making. I dedicated three years to practicing and refining my skills in this field. Finally, in 2016, I took the leap and launched my own brand. My passion for jewelry stems from a very young age, as well as my love for sculpting. The ability to shape and manipulate materials into wearable art has always fascinated me. This fascination, coupled with my desire to express my creativity and bring joy to others through my creations, fuels my enduring passion for jewelry making.
What was your first project or significant piece for you and from what point of view?
My first significant piece was the Cliff Collection. This collection was inspired by the breathtaking mountains of the Darband area in the north of Tehran. From a very young age, I would stroll through this stunning place and feel as if I was wandering through an incredible sculpture exhibition. Every little piece of stone seemed like a work of art to me.
Creating the Cliff Collection allowed me to capture and preserve my childhood memories. Each piece in the collection represented the awe-inspiring beauty of the cliffs and mountains I encountered during my explorations. It was a way for me to carry those cherished moments with me, as if wearing a piece of my childhood on my finger.
This project held great significance for me as it marked the realization of my artistic vision and the fusion of my passion for sculpture and jewelry making. It was a testament to my growth as an artist and my ability to translate my personal experiences and emotions into wearable art. The Cliff Collection represented a meaningful connection between my creative expression and the natural wonders that had deeply influenced me. This collection will be show cased in Romanian Jewelry Week 2023.
How do you charge your batteries? What other passions and creative interests do you have?
To rejuvenate my creative energy, I find solace in practicing jewelry making, often experimenting with diverse materials. I enjoy the process of revitalizing old pieces by incorporating colored stones or embarking on the creation of new collections. Reading is another passion of mine, particularly immersing myself in the world of poetry. Iran boasts a wealth of exceptional poets and philosophers whose works provide endless inspiration. Additionally, I find fulfillment through painting and sculpting, allowing me to express myself artistically in different forms.
What does the connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design mean to you?
The connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design, as it relates to my work, holds great significance. While my designs are modern and contemporary in nature, I draw inspiration from the cultural heritage, poems, nature, and history of my mother country, Iran.
Rather than relying on old traditional craftsmanship techniques or specific Persian design elements, I incorporate the essence of Iran's culture, poems, nature, and history as sources of inspiration. This allows me to infuse my creations with a distinct sense of identity and a connection to the rich tapestry of Iranian heritage.
The beauty of Iran's cultural traditions, the evocative verses of its poets, the breathtaking landscapes, and the depth of its historical narratives all contribute to the inspiration behind my contemporary designs. They provide a unique lens through which I interpret and express my artistic vision.
By embracing the cultural, artistic, and historical influences of Iran, I aim to create modern and contemporary pieces that carry a sense of depth, meaning, and a reflection of my roots. This connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design enables me to celebrate and share the beauty and richness of Iran's culture with a wider audience.
Is there a self-portrait piece that speaks most about you?
Yes, the Tulip collection holds great significance to me as a self-portrait in my artistic journey. Inspired by the poem "In the Barrier of the Night" by Mr. Shafiei Kadkani, a prominent contemporary poet in Iran, this collection reflects the story of my life and the lessons I've learned.
The poem highlights the idea that crises and disturbances in our lives are often self-inflicted, and we must look within ourselves for their causes. It emphasizes the importance of deep self-knowledge and understanding as a means to overcome challenges and find solutions.
In difficult situations, no external savior or remedy can truly save us. The real change and transformation can only be achieved by knowing our own truth and taking responsibility for our actions. This introspective journey is symbolized by the tulip, which represents a brave and selfless person, and the rock, which signifies the difficult and chaotic conditions we encounter.
The verses of the poem, such as "Blossom like a tulip from the heart of the stone, bring out the flag of blood" and "Break through the madness of rock solidity," resonate deeply with me. They encapsulate the essence of my personal growth and the resilience required to overcome obstacles.
Through the Tulip collection, I aim to convey this message of self-discovery, inner strength, and the transformative power of self-realization. Each piece represents a visual narrative of my own journey, expressing the beauty, courage, and determination that emerge when we confront our inner challenges.
In essence, the Tulip collection is not only a reflection of my artistic expression but also a profound representation of the universal human experience. It encapsulates the story of my life, my pursuit of self-awareness, and the belief that true change and growth lie within ourselves.
Which material have you not yet used is a temptation and a challenge for you?
Working with glass in jewelry making can be quite challenging. I have not practiced the glass techniques yet but I think the beauty of glass, with its transparency, shine, and vibrant colors, makes it worth the effort.
How was the pandemic period for you as a jewelry designer?
As a jewelry designer, the pandemic period was a mix of challenges and opportunities. Initially, it was disappointing to have multiple shows canceled, including those scheduled around the Iranian new year. However, the shift to online sales proved to be a positive experience, as it allowed me to reach a wider audience and engage with customers in new ways.
One significant highlight during the pandemic was being invited to participate in my first international show, the Milano Jewelry Week. It was an exciting opportunity to showcase my work on a global platform and connect with jewelry enthusiasts from around the world.
Despite the uncertainties and restrictions, I found myself incredibly productive during the pandemic. I channeled my creativity into the development of a new collection called "Skein." This collection was inspired by the feeling that everyone's lives were intricately intertwined, much like the threads of a skein, and it reflected the sense that there was no clear way out of the challenges we were facing.
Overall, the pandemic period served as a launch pad for me as a jewelry designer. It pushed me to adapt, explore new avenues, and find innovative ways to connect with my audience. While the circumstances were challenging, they also sparked creativity and led to unexpected opportunities for growth and exposure.
How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?
The future of contemporary jewelry is promising and filled with exciting possibilities. Here are a few key points:
Material Exploration: Contemporary jewelry artists are constantly experimenting with unconventional materials, pushing the boundaries of traditional jewelry-making. This opens up new avenues for unique textures and aesthetics in design.
Sustainability and Ethics: There is a growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced jewelry. In the future, we can expect a greater emphasis on eco-friendly materials and responsible production practices.
Technological Advancements: Technology, such as CAD/CAM software and 3D printing, continues to play a role in contemporary jewelry design, allowing for precise and intricate creations.
Conceptual and Narrative Approaches: Contemporary jewelry is increasingly incorporating conceptual and narrative elements, using jewelry as a means of personal expression and storytelling.
Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Practices: Collaborations between jewelry designers and artists from different fields are becoming more common, resulting in unique and innovative creations.
