Michelle Ni makes all kinds of interesting, unexpected jewelry, like the ring, bangle, and brooch featured here. Even though Ni studied industrial design while living in China, she moved to the UK to study silversmithing and jewelry making. Her complex forms reflect her early studies in design. I like the way she uses the gemstones and silver as sculptural elements, especially the protruding gemstones.
Here is a short interview I did with Michelle.
How did you decide to become a jewelry artist?
In 2004, I visited the graduate show at the Birmingham City University School of Jewelry in Birmingham, UK. I was excited to see how the imagination was explored through different media, which I had never seen before. I also liked the challenge this type of work would present to me. So, I decided to go to the School of Jewelry. After I finished my masters program in jewelry and silversmithing, I moved to London and became an artist-in-residence in the Jewelry Department of London Metropolitan University.
How would you describe your designs?
Geometry and natural form are the key elements in my work. I am interested in the visual contradictions that exist between the presentations of nature and machinery, complexity and simplicity. Their forms are inspired by natural plants, symbols of order and energy.
How did you find London after living in China? Is London your home now?
London is an exciting city and muti-cultural, full of art and atmosphere. I lived in London for more than two years. I plan to return to China sometime soon.
What shows or events do you have planned for 2010
I have an exhibition in Yorkshire Sculpture Park, a craft show in Germany in the summer, and an exhibtion in SOHO, London on Oct, 2010. Hopefully, I'll do more exhibitions, too.
Want to see more? Go to Michelle Ni Jewelry.
Comments