My latest I.Sea.You. art jewelry series are among my most complex works, with the pieces being a blend of different medias and techniques. While I have written in my earlier post about the concept and idea behind the series, this time I’d like to share what goes into the creation process, a glimpse of the rather long and elaborate process.
The First Steps
The idea for I.Sea.You. art jewelry was to create pieces that portray the coral bleaching phenomenon (more about it in my earlier post). A spark of an idea would lead to my pencil and sketchbook (scrap papers would do the job too), as I’d get it out as a sketch. Usually, this initial sketch could be done in just a few seconds, and I’d write alongside it any important notes regarding the ideas. It’s pretty much a loose sketch with quick notes, while plenty of the details are in my mind!
While most of the sketches usually show the main structure and elements that I’d like to create, they remain flexible to evolve. From the initial sketch, I could go further to develop more sketches or continue straight away to create the clay models.
In working with clay models, I start to think about the exact proportions and how the different elements interact. Figuring out the mechanism of the connections, among others, is one of the most time-consuming parts. Beside elements of color, I love to have elements of movement in my pieces, and these two require a lot of planning to make them work.
The Silver Modelling Stage
When happy with the clay model, I change medium and start creating with silver clay. I use Art Clay Silver that is manufactured by Aida Chemical Industries, a company specializing in recycling and refining precious metal. Every little part in the silver work of I.Sea.You. series is built by hand, including surface textures and patterns. I use very basic tools, such as modelling spatulas and a craft knife. I find the most freedom in creating is when I use the most basic tools.
The silver base, completely handsculpted. I use recycled silver in the form of clay, Art Clay Silver.
Even in this stage, there could be a minor change of plan (or even a major change of direction!). When I finally complete the main shape, the piece really starts to come to life with the process to create details and refine, which can take so much time. When ready, I continue by firing the silver clay in a jewelry kiln at around 800°C. Followed with polishing and other finishing steps, now the silver part is done. Phew! Now, on to the next step.
Paper Sculptures
Again, it’s all about handwork, this time cutting paper, coloring and assembling them. It’s a meticulous process which requires a lot of patience and I spend hours to plan, cut (using a pair of scissors and a craft knife), paint, and arrange the paper elements to get the shape and colors according to my design.
A general color plan.
The construction and plan of any mechanism of the paper sculptures is also one of the most demanding parts. Overall, this stage is pretty intensive as many factors are involved (what colors, what shapes, how do they connect to the silver part, etc.), and on top of that, some elements could be really tiny.
Combining
When I have the paper sculptures ready, to put it simply, I attach them to the silver base. By this point, my table is guaranteed to be a mess with tools and supplies from both sides: metalworking and paper working and everything in between.
The final stage is all about stepping back and reviewing the entire piece. I check for balance in the piece, ensure everything works, and fix things as necessary.
Completion & Reflection
It’s very easy to keep on working on a project, but I find it’s important to have a long enough break and come back to the piece with fresh eyes! That way I know what parts still need adjustments.
And how do I know it’s finished? Well, Da Vinci said ‘Art is never finished, only abandoned’. Most of the time I could go on and enjoy to continue working on a piece, maybe a bit like that feeling of staying at a lovely party after its official ending time. In this case, actually a timeline would come in handy, as there’s no more time available for those ‘final touch-ups’. Yay for a strict schedule (sometimes!).
Final result: I. Sea.You.2. ring. Recycled silver, recycled paper, non-permanent colors.
I.Sea.You. jewelry series portray the coral bleaching phenomenon.
After the process, I’d if there’s anything to note down from the creating journey, I’d do so while I still remember it. Creating I.Sea.You. series is a complex process that really challenges and pushes my artistic adventure further. It’s a very rewarding experience, I’m looking forward to create the next one.
Hope you enjoy this post!
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Marja Ylösmäki
Hello,
I saw some exquisite pieces of art jewelry today in The Winter Garden! I am also impressed by the ecological touch in your art. The colours of paper pieces will fade like corals, once they lose their colours.
Gongrats for the lovely exhibition!
AG Swatantri
Dear Marja, Many thanks for visiting the exhibition and for your lovely words! I’m really happy that the message in the pieces resonate with you. Hope to see you again in another occasion!