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Origins Brooch and Necklace by Paloma Sanchez |
Home > Winners > Design #147765 >Interview |
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FS: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?
PS: This piece draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of human history and the beauty found in diversity. It also emphasizes the significance of revitalizing antique tools by giving them a new lease on life.
FS: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?
PS: My primary objective was to create a piece of extraordinary beauty that would captivate the eye while preserving the essence of the central element—the 3000-year-old harpoon head. It was crucial for me to strike a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and honoring the historical significance of the artifact. I envisioned a jewelry piece that would evoke a sense of pride when worn, ensuring both comfort and a profound connection to the past. To achieve this, meticulous attention was given to every detail, ensuring that the design not only served as a stunning accessory but also possessed the qualities of a remarkable art piece. The intricate craftsmanship and thoughtful arrangement of elements were aimed at creating a harmonious composition that would evoke awe and admiration, whether adorning a wearer or being showcased in a vitrine. By carefully considering the materials, textures, and overall design, I aimed to accentuate the natural allure of the harpoon head while adding elements of elegance and sophistication. It was crucial to preserve the integrity of the central piece while enhancing its beauty through complementary elements and exceptional craftsmanship. Moreover, I strived to create a jewelry piece that transcended its function and became a wearable work of art. By infusing it with artistic elements and impeccable attention to detail, I ensured that it would be a source of joy, fascination, and inspiration when worn or exhibited. The piece was meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards of aesthetics, ensuring that it retained its allure both as a personal adornment and as a mesmerizing art piece in a vitrine. In essence, my aim was to create a piece of jewelry that embodied both the grace of a cherished accessory and the profound beauty of an art masterpiece. It was a harmonious fusion of historical significance, exquisite craftsmanship, and timeless beauty, designed to be worn with pride and admired as a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage it represents.
FS: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?
PS: The project was meticulously crafted over a period of nine months, commencing in January 2020 and reaching its completion in October 2020.
FS: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?
PS: Driven by a personal inspiration, I embarked on a captivating journey to research and breathe life into magnificent archaeological findings. The ultimate goal was to transform these historical treasure into a wearable art piece, allowing individuals to showcase it with a profound sense of pride and confidence.
FS: Is your design being produced or used by another company, or do you plan to sell or lease the production rights or do you intent to produce your work yourself?
PS: The design underwent meticulous craftsmanship in my personal workshop in Beijing, where it was transformed into an exquisite art piece. Each minute detail was attended to with utmost care, showcasing a profound dedication to the craft. Eventually, the art piece captivated the discerning eye of one of our esteemed collectors, solidifying its place as a cherished addition to their remarkable collection.
FS: What made you design this particular type of work?
PS: The copper harpoon head held a captivating power within it, demanding to be expressed and re-appropriated. The piece exuded an energy that needed to be harnessed and given new meaning.
FS: Who is the target customer for his design?
PS: This individual is marked by their remarkable expertise and intimate familiarity with the world of jewelry. Having been immersed in an environment abundant with exquisite pieces, their profound knowledge extends beyond jewelry to encompass various forms of art. Their discerning eye allows them to appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship of each creation. Despite their discerning taste and potentially high expectations, this customer exhibits a genuine appreciation for the jewelry they acquire.
FS: How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?
PS: The name "Origins" speaks for itself, encapsulating a profound concept that celebrates the significance of our shared history and the transformative power of repurposing antique treasures. It serves as a tribute to the enduring resilience of humankind, the remarkable forces of nature, and the legacy left by those who preceded us. This evocative title captures the essence of the piece, highlighting the interplay between heritage and innovation, and inspiring awe and reverence for the interconnectedness of past and present.
FS: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?
PS: The brooch is meticulously handcrafted in 18kt gold, employing a casting technique that ensures its exquisite form. A significant component of this piece is the Anishinaabe Harpoon head, dating back to 1000 B.C., discovered in the Great Lakes region. The harmonious union of this historical artifact with Japanese Akoya pearls and Diamonds creates a captivating fusion of cultures and materials. To ensure the stability of the brooch when worn, we designed the back with two discreet needles. These needles, cleverly hidden from view, provide steadfast support, ensuring that the face of the brooch remains forward-facing, preventing any unwarranted tilting or rolling. This attention to detail guarantees that the brooch's stunning features are showcased prominently, capturing the attention of admirers without distraction.
FS: What is the most unique aspect of your design?
PS: I believe it is the combination of textures. The juxtaposition of textures within the brooch creates an extraordinary and captivating aesthetic. The weathered roughness of the aged copper, the velvety smoothness of the pearls, and the sparkling brilliance of the diamonds intertwine to form a truly unique masterpiece. This harmonious fusion of contrasting textures not only evokes a sensory delight but also symbolizes the celebration of our shared history and the transformative power of repurposing antique treasures. The roughness of the old copper pays homage to the historical significance of the Anishinaabe Harpoon head, embodying a connection to the past. The warm smoothness of the pearls exudes elegance and grace, representing a timeless beauty. Meanwhile, the cold fire emanating from the diamonds adds a touch of contemporary allure and brilliance, infusing the piece with a sense of modernity. This interplay of textures encapsulates the essence of the brooch, inviting viewers to appreciate the intricate layers of history, craftsmanship, and creativity woven into its design. It serves as a testament to the endless possibilities that emerge when antique treasures are reimagined and repurposed, breathing new life into the past and inspiring awe in the present.
FS: Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?
PS: The creation of this remarkable piece involved the skillful craftsmanship of a dedicated team of Chinese master artisans. These highly skilled craftsmen meticulously brought the design to life, employing their expertise and honed techniques to ensure every detail was flawlessly executed. Their dedication and passion for their craft shine through in the impeccable artistry and quality of the final piece, reflecting the culmination of their collective talent and years of experience. The collaborative effort of these master craftsmen is a testament to the exceptional skill and craftsmanship found within the realm of Chinese artistry.
FS: What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?
PS: The production of this extraordinary piece presented two significant challenges that required both technical expertise and a creative approach. The first challenge was to balance utility with conveying the Anishinaabe worldview in a contemporary context. Our aim was to create a brooch that was not only visually appealing and comfortable to wear but also versatile, functioning both as a necklace and a brooch. We wanted to capture the essence of the First Nations' connection with nature and their refined craftsmanship. To address this challenge, we developed a unique two-needle system hidden along 50% of the harpoon, with an invisible clasp at the top to allow for the attachment of a chain. This innovative design ensured that the harpoon remained straight when worn as a necklace or a brooch, with the clasp centered and the needles acting as counterweights and stoppers. The second challenge arose during the manufacturing process, as the delicate nature of the harpoon required careful handling to preserve its texture and color. Additionally, to honor its bond with nature, we strived for zero waste during production. To achieve this, we meticulously hand-sculpted a wax mold that precisely fit the harpoon. This mold was then used to cast the 18kt gold front enhancements for the diamonds, as well as the brooch needles and back adornments. The dorsal 18kt gold structure was delicately adjusted to the harpoon, resulting in the final product. To further emphasize the deep connection to nature and showcase the Anishinaabe's skilled craftsmanship, we incorporated natural gems with contrasting textures. The smooth, white spheres of the pearls elegantly contrast with the oxidized roughness of the copper, while the diamonds add a luminous quality, allowing the piece to emit its own radiant light. These contrasting textures reflect the Anishinaabe worldview, which appreciates the harmonious interplay of all elements in the natural world. The smoothness of the pearls symbolizes the calmness and tranquility found in nature, while the roughness of the copper represents the strength and resilience required to thrive in the natural world. The diamonds, with their brilliant radiance, represent the beauty and awe-inspiring wonders of nature. Through our thoughtful design, we sought to pay homage to the Anishinaabe's sophisticated craftsmanship and their profound reverence for nature. The result is a piece that exudes luxurious allure while remaining true to the essence of the Anishinaabe worldview.
FS: What did you learn or how did you improve yourself during the designing of this work?
PS: With this design, I wholeheartedly embraced the profound influence and exquisite beauty that time bestows upon us. It served as a powerful reminder that no matter our age or stage in life, the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and embark on new creative journeys is ever-present. The design became a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and the endless possibilities that await those who dare to explore uncharted territories. In the process of creating this piece, I found inspiration in the notion that age is not a limitation, but rather a gateway to wisdom, experience, and untapped potential. Just as the antique tools from the past found new life and interpretation in my design, I too discovered the joy and liberation of reinventing myself. It was a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, fueled by the belief that one can always embark on new creative endeavors and find new purpose. Through this realization, I became empowered to embrace the beauty of age and the richness it brings to our lives. I learned to appreciate the intricacies and unique character that time imparts upon us, just as the design took on its own distinctive qualities through the passage of time. It was a profound journey of self-expression and transformation, reminding me that there is always room for innovation, reinvention, and boundless creativity, no matter how far along the path of life we may be.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A' Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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