Spot the Designer - Vendula Fabian/ Czech Republic

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

When I was a child, I wanted to be a dustman (woman). I found it very cool how the dustmen rode on the back of the truck just on the little step.

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

The first attempts to make jewelry out of plastic beads and wires came around the time I was 10 years old. Back then I learned it from an older friend. This hobby lasted through my teen years until I was accepted to the Secondary School of Applied Arts in Uherské Hradiště, where I started studying Shoe and Fashion Accessories design.

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

I made my first significant piece when I was an exchange student at the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem. I made a simple ring supervised by Vered Kaminski. It was a tryout ring, just to learn how to solder a metal “sandwich” from silver and copper for a project class I took there. This ring stayed with me until now, I call it a “know-how” ring and I wear it every time I need to learn something I consider difficult or when I feel insecure.

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

I like intense runs and long walks. Spending time with particular friends with whom I can talk and share. And after all, my jewelry work is part of charging my batteries as well, because I also have a job, and it is something I enjoy doing.

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

Tradition is important due to it shows us the history of development in the field. There is a lot to learn from the manufacturing tradition in the sense of technology and making techniques, as well as aesthetics. All of this can be a great source of inspiration. And, after all, it is important to know the tradition, if you want to break it as a contemporary artist/designer.

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

Yes. It was a time when I was discovering a bit more raw side of myself, learning how to embrace it.

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

I have never worked with gold. I really enjoy working with silver and other materials, however, I would like to use it.

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

It was a very special time, and also the time of my master thesis work. I was very lucky to be in Idar-Oberstein and therefore I had a very calm time for myself and my pieces. It was a huge privilege.

How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?

I’m not sure I can see anything concrete in the future of contemporary jewelry. However, I hope we will be able to step out of our art jewelry “bubble” and cooperate more with other artistic fields. In general, I just hope for something interesting and fun to come.

Find more about the designer Vendula Fabian