I LOVE AMSTERDAM!

I recently returned from Amsterdam, where I exhibited in SIERAAD Art Fair for the third time alongside some of the very best talents in the contemporary jewellery world. I always find this show inspirational and love returning each year.

One of the main highlights each year is to meet other talented makers, who's work I know from photos only, but seeing the work up close is always both surprising and exciting.

Two makers that stood out for me in this year’s fair were Jimin Kim and Seulgo Kwon who displayed of their work side by side in a shared a stand.

Seulgo Kwon creates ‘organisms’ based on cells that are formed at each stage of creation, growth, division, and extinction. This process creates new and unpredictable ‘organisms’ and organic forms with an element of fantasy using synthetic resins and silicon.

Jimin Kim’s work is based on memories. The images from her past are re-interpreted and become a three-dimensional shape, where the paper is cut into shape and rearranged and then constructed to become exquisite pieces of wearable art.

 

 

While in Amsterdam I also visited three studios of local contemporary jewellers who create distinct work with an interesting choice of materials and methods.

First, we called on Katja Prins’ studio, located in the heart of Amsterdam, in a charming old building in the Red Light District. I have been admiring Katja’s work for many years and it was such a highlight to see her delightfully intimate studio and view her diverse work close up. While there we had a ‘sneak peek’ of her work in progress as she evolves with new ideas, inspiration and aesthetics. I can’t wait to see what will emerge at the end of this process…

 

 

Next was Ela Bauer’s bright and airy studio, overlooking the river – what an inspirational space – I could move in…

Ela’s work is bold, distinct and colourful. Her pieces are constructed out of cell and root like particles. These ‘cells’ and ‘roots’ are made of different materials such as silicone, resin, porcelain, minerals and fabric, often connected by means of sewing. Her organic colourful forms create a strong statement when worn. I loved seeing her creative process of play in its natural environment.

 

 

The last stop was at Uli Rapp’s studio. Her work is inspired by 16th-century jewellery of Elizabeth I of England and trompe l’oeil painting. In her work, she displays imaginary wealth using screen-printed textile of diamonds, pearls and chains that are exaggerated in size and layered.

 

 

I find it fascinating to see other studios.... what an amazing rare glimpse into other makers’ space, process, inspiration and work. I loved it every minute of it!