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| DESIGN DETAILS |
DESIGN NAME:
Squama
PRIMARY FUNCTION:
Body Jewelry
INSPIRATION:
Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid's inquiry begins with the question: How can technique generate aesthetics simultaneously? This exploration transcends mere ornamentation and fundamentally emphasizes the intrinsic role of technique itself. In her research for designing this collection, it is essential to integrate both experimental and technical aspects. She investigates the technical possibilities that align innovative aesthetic concepts with robust technical principles, viewing them as interconnected rather than isolated processes. A cohesive approach to design, technique, and material properties can unlock new possibilities that might remain inaccessible when approached from a fragmented perspective. Furthermore, exploring the integration of architectural thinking with design thinking reveals new opportunities within this design process.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The Squama is part of the Kerf Collection, a series that explores the interplay of technique and material properties while treating the body as context. Through precise kerf cuts, the silver gains fluidity, bending effortlessly to follow the body's natural topography. Its undulating surface catches and disperses light, creating a luminous gradient that shifts with movement. The interplay of incandescent highlights and satin-finished shadows accentuates the body's form, transforming reflection into a dynamic expression of light. These reflective effects keep the piece alive, almost like a living creature. The name 'Squama' alludes to overlapping layers of plates, reflecting light in intricate patterns. The Squama design pieces showcase their own material techniques and properties independently, without relying on external materials for structure or superficial bending.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION:
The Squama Jewelry features a silver flat design when not in use, effortlessly transforming to fit comfortably around the wrist and neck when worn. These pieces are part of the continually expanding collection known as the Kerf Collection, which reveals the body's landscape as context. The fabrication technique and materials create dynamic reflections that shift with the wearer’s movements, adding an interactive element. With the ability to extend from the wrist to the elbow in a single piece, it adapts to create a customizable look that reflects personal taste.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION:
The project started in March 2023 and finished in 2024
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY:
The experimental phase of this project has been crucial in examining the integration of kerf bending techniques with various material properties. I tested a range of materials and methods to identify the most effective combinations for achieving optimal results in both functionality and design. Techniques such as 3D printing and laser cutting were utilized. Key factors included curve geometries, cut depth, strip width, material thickness, and spacing. An important aspect of this phase was emphasizing the self-sufficiency of both the techniques and the materials used.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES:
The simple version of the Squama bracelet measures 30mm x 0.5mm x 228mm but can be customized to fit individual wrist sizes. The Squama necklace measures 380mm x 0.5mm x 32mm. Additionally, the extendable version of the bracelet can be adjusted to fit personal preferences, allowing it to extend from the wrist to the elbow.
TAGS:
Body as context, Body landscape, Kerfs collection, Transformation, integrity of technique and aesthetics in design Technique, Reflection, Squama , Alive piece, luminous gradient
RESEARCH ABSTRACT:
How can technique operate as a generative design machine?The vital experimental phase began with 3D printed prototypes utilizing the kerf bending technique, followed by laser cut devices. Factors such as cut direction, distances, and material properties were explored to optimize bending and achieve material self-sufficiency without the need for additional structure. The aim was to identify suitable technologies and materials, with silver emerging as the most effective due to its transformative properties when transitioning from flat to bent shapes based on the technique.
CHALLENGE:
This kerf collection project is experimental in nature and requires the testing of a series of prototypes. However, I face challenges due to the limited availability of 3D printing and laser cutting technology, as well as materials in Iran. Balancing the design with the necessary technology for the final products can be difficult. Additionally, there is a shortage of skilled operators for these devices, requiring me to find qualified individuals to manage the technical aspects of laser cutting and 3D printing. As a result, I must conduct extensive independent research on relevant technologies and materials.
ADDED DATE:
2024-09-30 06:04:01
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS:
Image #1: Photographers: Gabriel Salcedo, Mahbod NourMohamadi, Kerf Collection, Squama , 2024, Image#2: Gabriel Salcedo, Mahbod NourMohamadi, Kerf Collection, Squama 2024, Image#3: Gabriel Salcedo, Mahbod NourMohamadi, Kerf Collection, Squama ,2024
Image#4: Gabriel Salcedo, Mahbod NourMohamadi, Kerf Collection, Squama ,2024
Image#5:Mohammad Esmaeili, Kerf Collection, Squama , 2024 ,
video,Videographer and Editor: Amir Doustdarnia, Lighting and Videographer assistant:Mohammad Esmaeili
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| Visit the following page to learn more: https://mehrnaz-zarrin-hadid.com |
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| COMMENTS |
| Giulia Esposito |
Comment #103631 on June 20, 2025, 12:56 pm |
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I am truly inspired by the extraordinary creativity and technical precision evident in the "Squama" body jewelry design; the way the silver is masterfully manipulated through kerf cutting to enhance the body's natural contours is genuinely captivating and innovative. The seamless fusion of advanced technique and aesthetic elegance, particularly the dynamic interplay of light and shadow created through the jewelry's undulating surfaces, speaks volumes about the profound research and meticulous experimentation invested in the creation process. Furthermore, the thoughtful integration of architectural principles into jewelry design demonstrates a remarkable level of conceptual depth and originality, resulting in a strikingly sophisticated piece that seems almost alive in its interactive reflections. The overcoming of significant technical and resource-related challenges adds another dimension of appreciation, underscoring determination and resourcefulness that elevate the final outcome to an even greater level of excellence. It is an absolute pleasure to celebrate the remarkable achievement and outstanding craftsmanship of Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid.
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| Chloe Turner |
Comment #104287 on June 20, 2025, 6:24 pm |
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I am thoroughly impressed by the innovative approach embodied in the awarded piece, "Squama," as the jewelry design exemplifies a harmonious fusion of technique and aesthetics in a truly captivating manner. The deliberate exploration of technical possibilities, combined thoughtfully with experimental aesthetics, clearly demonstrates a profound understanding of jewelry design as an interconnected and fluid process, rather than isolated stages. Particularly inspiring is the thoughtful integration of architectural thinking into the jewelry piece, which successfully expands the boundaries of conventional jewelry design and opens intriguing new avenues for creative exploration. In my view, the meticulous attention given to technique and material properties, along with the emphasis on cohesive design thinking, has resulted in a unique and sophisticated body jewelry piece that stands out distinctly within the field. This exceptional work rightly deserves recognition and admiration, and I eagerly look forward to seeing future creations by Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid.
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| Paul Phillips |
Comment #104742 on June 20, 2025, 10:12 pm |
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I am thoroughly impressed by the masterful exploration of material and technique exemplified in the Squama body jewelry design, which beautifully integrates form and function to harmonize with the body's contours. The precise kerf cuts enabling the silver to gracefully adapt to the natural topography of the human form, coupled with the dynamic interplay of luminous highlights and satin shadows, evoke a captivating sense of motion and life. Observing how seamlessly the reflective surfaces transform and animate through shifting gradients of light fills me with great admiration for the innovative craftsmanship and thoughtful conceptualization behind the work. The sophisticated naming choice, aptly referencing the intricate patterns and overlapping layers of plates, further enhances my appreciation of the thoughtful depth and coherence of the design concept. This remarkable achievement is truly deserving of recognition and underscores the creative excellence and meticulous execution of Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid.
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| Thomas Anderson |
Comment #104969 on June 21, 2025, 12:06 am |
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I am deeply impressed by the exceptional elegance and innovation of the "Squama" body jewelry, a piece that seamlessly merges sophisticated technique and meticulous craftsmanship into a harmonious whole. The thoughtful exploration of kerf cutting techniques, allowing silver to gracefully embrace the natural contours of the body, is truly captivating and demonstrates remarkable sensitivity to both form and material. By skillfully harnessing the interplay between luminous reflections and subtle satin finishes, the jewelry evokes a mesmerizing visual rhythm, breathing life into its metal surface as if it were organically alive. Moreover, the philosophical depth underlying the creation, where technique itself is elevated to an aesthetic dimension, resonates profoundly and inspires genuine admiration. This extraordinary approach, integrating architectural thoughtfulness and experimental rigor, represents a meaningful advancement within jewelry design, offering valuable insights and a fresh perspective for fellow design enthusiasts. I sincerely commend this outstanding achievement and eagerly look forward to witnessing more visionary contributions from Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid.
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| Elisabeth Clark |
Comment #105304 on June 21, 2025, 2:54 am |
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I am truly inspired by Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid's remarkable achievement in winning the prestigious A' Design Award with the extraordinary body jewelry piece titled "Squama." The exceptional way Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid transforms silver through precise kerf cuts into a fluid form that effortlessly complements and accentuates the natural contours of the body is genuinely impressive. I particularly admire how the interplay of incandescent highlights and satin-finished shadows on the jewelry's undulating surface creates a dynamic, living effect, beautifully capturing and dispersing light in intricate patterns. Furthermore, the thoughtful integration of experimental and technical research into the design process, combining aesthetic innovation with robust technical principles, demonstrates a profound dedication to exploring the full potential of materials and techniques. The insightful fusion of architectural thinking and design thinking that Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid incorporates into the design approach opens exciting new possibilities and sets an exemplary standard in the field of jewelry design. I am sincerely delighted to witness such an innovative and inspiring piece of work recognized with this significant accolade.
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| Adam Harris |
Comment #105922 on June 21, 2025, 8:03 am |
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The "Squama" body jewelry design is a truly inspiring example of the harmonious fusion between form, technique, and materiality, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and innovation. Observing the meticulous use of kerf cutting techniques to achieve fluidity and dynamic reflections upon the silver surface leaves me deeply impressed with the thoughtful exploration of material properties and aesthetics simultaneously. The commitment to experimentation and the rigorous research process undertaken by Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid exemplify an admirable dedication to pushing the boundaries of jewelry design, resulting in a piece that beautifully interacts with the body's natural contours. I greatly admire how the design seamlessly integrates architectural thinking into jewelry creation, transforming a technical challenge into a visually captivating and conceptually profound work. It is immensely gratifying to witness such a meticulously executed and creatively ambitious project being recognized with the prestigious A' Design Award, a well-deserved acknowledgment of the designer's outstanding talent and visionary approach.
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| Paul Williams |
Comment #106339 on June 21, 2025, 11:32 am |
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Squama is truly an extraordinary demonstration of how innovative technique can seamlessly blend with aesthetic elegance to produce exceptional jewelry design. Observing the Squama, I find the sophisticated use of kerf bending particularly inspiring, as this thoughtful approach allows silver to gracefully embrace the body's natural contours. The meticulous attention to cut precision and material properties results in a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, creating an intriguing visual rhythm reminiscent of a living entity. Furthermore, I appreciate how the Squama collection embodies the designer's thoughtful exploration into the integration of architecture-inspired design thinking with technical rigor, resulting in jewelry pieces that transcend mere adornment and become art in their own right. Considering the obstacles encountered due to limited technological resources, the successful realization of Squama clearly reflects an exceptional dedication to research, experimentation, and craftsmanship, all of which make this accolade well-deserved and commendable.
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| Victoria Hill |
Comment #106550 on June 21, 2025, 1:18 pm |
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Squama embodies an extraordinary harmony of innovative technique and refined aesthetics, beautifully revealing how meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design can merge seamlessly. The sophisticated use of kerf cuts to enable silver's inherent flexibility, allowing the metal to fluidly embrace the body's contours, demonstrates exceptional technical skill and a profound sensitivity to the human form. I deeply appreciate how the luminous interplay of satin-finished shadows and incandescent highlights animates the jewelry, imparting a sense of organic vitality and dynamic elegance. The thoughtful integration of architectural principles within the jewelry design process is particularly inspiring, underscoring a holistic approach that elevates both form and function. Experiencing the thoughtfully executed balance between experimentation and rigorous research in Squama, I recognize and deeply respect the perseverance and resourcefulness required to overcome technological and material challenges. This remarkable achievement in earning the Platinum A' Design Award clearly reflects a truly commendable mastery of jewelry design innovation and excellence.
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| Mark Allen |
Comment #106850 on June 21, 2025, 3:48 pm |
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The innovative approach taken in the Squama body jewelry design elegantly highlights the harmonious interplay between technique, material properties, and the natural contours of the human form, resulting in a captivating and fluid aesthetic experience. The meticulous exploration of kerf bending techniques, combined with precise craftsmanship, ensures a self-sufficient, dynamic structure that beautifully captures and expresses luminous gradients through reflections of light. The thoughtful integration of architectural principles into jewelry design elevates the conceptual depth and sophistication evident in the piece, demonstrating a commendable commitment to experimental research and refined execution. Winning the A' Design Award in the Jewelry Design Category is a well-deserved acknowledgment of the exceptional creativity, technical mastery, and artistic sensitivity showcased through this remarkable creation.
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| Elena Petrenko |
Comment #107327 on June 21, 2025, 8:06 pm |
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The Squama body jewelry brilliantly embodies a harmonious blend of innovative technique and sophisticated aesthetics, beautifully accentuating the natural contours of the body through dynamic reflections of light.
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| Valentina Rossi |
Comment #107547 on June 21, 2025, 9:55 pm |
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The Squama body jewelry stands out beautifully through the sophisticated integration of technique, material, and form, resulting in an elegant and dynamic interplay of light and reflection. The innovative application of kerf bending creates a captivating piece that gracefully embraces the body's natural contours, exemplifying remarkable craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
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| Patricia Miller |
Comment #107653 on June 21, 2025, 10:48 pm |
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Squama brilliantly merges technical precision with aesthetic fluidity, creating a captivating interplay of light and form that elegantly celebrates the body's natural contours.
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| Anna Ivanova |
Comment #107735 on June 21, 2025, 11:29 pm |
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I am truly impressed by the exceptional artistry and innovative approach reflected in Mehrnaz Zarrin Hadid's award-winning body jewelry design, "Squama"; the meticulous craftsmanship and unique aesthetic sensibility demonstrated in the jewelry piece represent a remarkable achievement in the field of Jewelry Design, deserving of sincere admiration and recognition.
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