To be honest, I don’t have any recollection of me dreaming to grow up and become something specific. Maybe it was for the better, I don’t have any regrets now.
When have you started creating jewelry? How did this passion come about?
I remember living in a rented apartment and I was repeatedly visiting an art & crafts supplies store in my neighbourhood, looking for things to beautify said apartment. One day I have noticed they brought some lampwork beads that I really couldn’t resist. That was the beginning, because from there, I found out about how amazing the jewelry world really is and I’ve kept learning things and wanting to learn even more.
What was your first project or significant piece for you and from what point of view?
Most definitely my first soldered piece, a very simple brass ring, but the feeling of accomplishment was tremendous. I don’t think I’ve experienced that ever again, probably because it was the first time I have made something I really wanted to make and it was then, in that moment, that I actually considered myself a jeweller.
How do you charge your batteries? What other passions and creative interests do you have?
My batteries are never empty [could it be because I take many, many breaks ?!], I rather need time for my hands to heal. I do like to read and to pretend I like hiking.
What does the connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design mean to you?
I think contemporary design –in terms of jewelry- can exist separately from the old manufacturing techniques [new materials, new approach, new fabrication methods], or it can use this amazing database [if I can use this term] as a starting point, as a base to build upon.
Is there a self-portrait piece that speaks most about you?
Not really, I think of my jewelry as puzzle pieces – you figure out how they come together, you can tell who I am.
Which material have you not yet used is a temptation and a challenge for you?
Glass and ceramic have always been hot points of interest, and while I have already worked with ceramic & porcelain for a bit over a year now, glass is still high on my to do list.
How was the pandemic period for you as a jewelry designer?
For me it was ‘business’ as usual, as I have my studio set up in the same building I live in and an online shop that allowed the wearers of my pieces to still have access to them as if nothing has changed. I actually was more disciplined, working out in the morning and doing studio work in the afternoon – it’s all gone now, I’m back to my baaad, bad habits.
How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?
