My childhood was immersed in a profound fascination for Iranian culture and its rich literary heritage. I was constantly exposed to the captivating worlds of poetry and art. I have vivid memories of reciting verses from Shahnameh and Hafez during our cherished family gatherings. as a child I dreamed of becoming a teacher, an actress, and a painter, all with the shared purpose of narrating stories to captivate and inspire people. In the end, I evolved into a storyteller weaving tales through my jewelry and art.
When have you started creating jewelry? How did this passion come about?
I began my journey of creating jewelry with a profound admiration for my grandmother, a woman of remarkable strength, beauty, and wisdom. I was always with her wherever she went, from Vakil Bazar to her trusted jeweler's shop in the heart of the jewelry quarter. One poignant memory stands out—the day she verbally designed a new ring, embellished with a captivating emerald gemstone. It was during this moment that I had my first glimpse into the intricate world of jewelry manufacturing.
These cherished memories not only left an indelible mark but also ignited a deep-seated passion within me to fully explore the enchanting realm of jewelry. My grandmother possessed a cherished jewelry box, a family heirloom passed down through generations. Tragically, we lost her in a devastating accident, but I was determined to keep her memory alive.
In honor of her legacy, I embarked on my first endeavor to create a wearable object. I decided to redesign and reimagine the jewelry that had once belonged to her. This marked the genesis of my creative journey, as I ventured into crafting pieces that would not only capture the essence of tradition but also breathe new life into the stories, she had shared with me.
What was your first project or significant piece for you and from what point of view?
The significant piece for me is from my recent 'Lost Garden' collection. It's an interactive piece that encapsulates the idea of collecting memories from our surroundings. The design features a hollow interior, allowing the wearer to place small natural souvenirs inside. This piece represents the simple joy of cherishing moments and nature's beauty within a wearable piece of art."
How do you charge your batteries? What other passions and creative interests do you have?
When I feel the need to boost my creativity or encounter difficulties in finding my creative flow, I break the cycle by engaging in something entirely different, sometimes even more challenging. One of my go-to methods is visiting museums, physically and virtually.
What does the connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design mean to you?
Growing up in the historical city of Shiraz, I had the privilege of witnessing jewelry manufacturing using the most traditional methods. I believe these methods have the capacity to produce timeless and respectful aesthetics that can endure for many years. However, I also recognize the importance of exploring new aesthetics while honoring and integrating traditional design elements to meet the demands of our time.
Is there a self-portrait piece that speaks most about you?
I have a piece that holds significant personal meaning for me. I created this piece during a very emotional period in my life. It's a broken piece of jewelry that I meticulously reassembled, with a gemstone placed within the break line. This piece symbolizes the idea that sometimes we experience pain and adversity, and we can mend our spirits and continue forward.
I've named this piece 'Standing Tree,' metaphorically alluding to its origin from a garden that had been destroyed, much like the times when we must preserve our spirits and move forward.
Which material have you not yet used is a temptation and a challenge for you?
I find fiber to be a compelling material that has recently piqued my interest. Traditionally used in Persian carpets, its soft and flexible nature presents an intriguing contrast when paired with metal. I'm drawn to the challenges and creative possibilities it offers.
How was the pandemic period for you as a jewelry designer?
I must admit that the pandemic was a challenging time to navigate. However, I chose to make the most of it by deepening my understanding of my country's culture. During this period, I actively participated in online workshops focused on Persian poetry and the theory of art in traditional Iranian Fine Art.
How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?
I admire art jewelry for its ability to communicate with a diverse and wide-ranging audience. Historically, this medium may have been somewhat underestimated in the broader context of art history, but now is an exciting time for contemporary jewelry to flourish, particularly in my home country, Iran.
I've observed a growing interest in new forms, materials, and ideas surrounding jewelry, and this trend is truly inspiring. It signifies a shift toward a more inclusive and innovative approach to this art form. As more people seek unique and unconventional pieces, contemporary jewelry is well-positioned to continue evolving and captivating audiences, both locally and globally.
