Stefania-Crina Hutanu/ Romania
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I have always wanted to create, since I was a child. I was a curious child and eager to "craft" and the influence of my father, a professional photographer, who had an affinity for creation and manual work, was defining for my path in life. A path that had many detours through what is considered a "real job", but I was never happy until I got home from "serious job" and started various creative pursuits.
When have you started creating jewelry? How did this passion come about?
I started creating jewelry in 2020. Having a thirst for creation, I loved to follow online absolutely everything that involves creation, of any kind. I was attracted by the videos of making jewelry using the wire braiding technique and it didn't take long until I ordered some pliers and a bunch of copper wire. My creations were well received, in time I switched to more valuable materials such as silver and semi-precious stones. What I couldn't create was a ring, it was complicated to make a durable ring out of wire... It was THE RING that pushed me to look for a jewelry school and I found the best one in 2022! Since then I felt that my life had finally turned to its normal course.
What was your first project or significant piece for you and from what point of view?
THE RING. My first and most significant piece (it still is today and I think it will remain until the end i believe) is THE RING made at initiation course in this incredible craft. Finally I managed to create the first ring and it happened to be a spectacular one, it set in motion all my creativity and inventiveness and I wear it with pride, I can say that in this ring if you look carefully you can see my soul!
How do you charge your batteries? What other passions and creative interests do you have?
For me, any form of creation is a perfect way to recharge my batteries as well as to relax and get out of everyday life.
What does the connection between manufacturing tradition and contemporary design mean to you?
When you say tradition and contemporaneity, you are actually saying past and present. You cannot have the present without the past and you also cannot have the future without the two above.
Is there a self-portrait piece that speaks most about you?
Each piece contains, in addition to the materials used, a piece of my personality and soul. I have in my collection pieces that I sketched and re-sketched for a long time before creating them, but also pieces made spontaneously from the strong impulse of the moment to create, there are pieces that I created from the need to take refuge and find myself or the opposite to show the world what I am and what I can do. For me, creating jewelry means emotions, vitality and the continuous metamorphosis of the self!
How was the pandemic period for you as a jewelry designer?
The pandemic period helped me find the courage to start this journey...a lifelong journey.
How do you see the future of contemporary jewelry?
BRIGHT…. brilliant, shiny, textured, voluminous, patinated, colourful, significant...a masterpiece!
Find more about the designer Galatheea Finery