Spot the Designer - Shiqi Fu/ UK

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

When I was a kid I thought I would be in an arts related profession, probably a pianist, as I have been taking piano lessons since I was very young. That's why I'm extraordinarily interested in art-related professions. When I got a little older I became interested in crafts and would often make my own little crafts for people around me.

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

Around the age of 10 or so, I started to enjoy making my own crafts, perhaps using playdough to pinch a character I'd read about from a storybook, or weaving my own enchanted necklace. I would focus on things that were imaginative.

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

This is a piece I made after formally taking some jewellery making courses, it's relatively early days but it means a lot to me. I am slowly learning how to express the emotions I want to convey with more professional jewellery making skills.

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

I think travelling is a good way to recharge. Every time I travel I get new inspirations, and that's because most of my works are inspired by the smallest things in life, such as recording some emotional moments. So when you are in an unfamiliar place while travelling, all kinds of subtle emotions will be particularly obvious. I like to draw simple illustrations on the go. When I'm creating I can go through what different ideas I've had.

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

I think this kind of is connected. Because when you know some of the traditional techniques it's easier to know how to express the concepts that you want to express.

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

The theme of most of my work surrounds the sky. I think it represents freedom, yearning, and hope. So this work I think best expresses my feelings in recent years, with a kind of expectation and outlook for the future.

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

I've been wanting to experiment with glass for a while now, but am still working out if I can combine glass and metal better. 

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

I think it was a very difficult time, with all the exhibitions and art events suspended. But it's also an opportunity for me to be quiet and focus on my work, on the people around me, and on myself. And then put this emotion in my works.

How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?

I hope it can become more diverse, with different ways of interpreting it, and ways of wearing it coming up. Because creation itself is a constant exploration and renewal.

Find more about the designer Shiqi Fu