As a child I wanted to become a Biologist, to research Nature: plants, insects and trees. I participated in botany circles for children where I learned about the uses of the microscope. I was captivated when I entered a biology laboratory for the first time and saw the plant cell and microbes under the microscope.
When have you started creating jewelry? How did this passion come about?
The passion for jewelry started when I was 7 years old when I attended a course of handmade jewelry and worked with synthetic resin (Fimo). Then I drew, modeled and assembled the first piece of jewelry from silver wire, minerals and alternative materials. Then I started to create/combine natural elements in play – stones, pieces of wood, dried plants with metals to make necklaces for myself and for friends, who also became my clients. Creating jewelry came naturally, after I attended the Assamblage - Contemporary Jewelry School. This fact happened at the beginning of 2021, but I started to define myself as a jewelry designer only a year later.
What was your first project or significant piece for you and from what point of view?
My first project was the piece SUN - MOON - EARTH. The piece made by the lost wax method, made of 925 silver and bronze, decorated with raw natural ruby and organic bronze elements, inspired by the ancient myth of the brotherhood of the Sun and the Moon.
How do you charge your batteries? What other passions and creative interests do you have?
I charge my batteries in nature, in my studio and in museums. I like to research and write about the healing abilities of plants and trees, to read and research about Romanian and international legends and myths, to identify the forms by which I can transpose characters or elements from these myths in my creations.
What does the connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design mean to you?
I work on jewelry pieces using traditional manual tools and rarely use modern technology. I have an extraordinary satisfaction when I see how the piece comes to life little by little in my hands with the help of fire and some simple tools used by jewelers forever. The fact that I work with simple tools and can give life to powerful and spectacular objects gives me joy and soulful satisfaction at the end of the work, even if it is often exhausting work that stretches over several days or weeks.
Is there a self-portrait piece that speaks most about you?
Pendant NAIADA/NYMPH OF SWEET WATERS, of springs and fountains, spirit of Nature, one of the daughters of Zeus. Unique jewel, handmade from 925 silver, decorated with 24k gold leaf, smoky quartz lens, bismuth and opals
Which material have you not yet used is a temptation and a challenge for you?
There are many materials that I have not worked with, but I am attracted to natural elements and rare metals. In the future, I want to work with porcelain, gold, platinum and palladium.
How was the pandemic period for you as a jewelry designer?
The pandemic period was for me a period of introspection, study and tests. That's when I got in touch with contemporary jewelry at the Institute of Contemporary Jewelry - Assamblage, where I discovered the unlimited creative possibilities offered by this segment of jewelry under the guidance of professors David Sandu and Andreia Popescu.
How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?
In the future, contemporary jewelry will attract more and more artists and also the public due to the attraction for uniqueness and freedom of expression of the designer in working with metal or alternative materials.
