Paloma Vega
Argentina
She tries to recover the energetic spirit of the Andes, with ancient techniques, colors, and textures, bringing them to a contemporary present: fragmented, multiple, modern. For her, a jewel is not something accessory; it is something essential. A jewel as a portal, a talisman, an amulet; a place to keep dreams alive.
- When did you start dedicating yourself to the world of contemporary jewelry?
I started to dedicate fully to contemporary jewellery in 2009, previously to that was mostly dedicated to clothing and textile design. Jewelry gave me chance to explore a more weareable art form, full of new challenges and intriguing resolutions.
- What do you take inspiration from when you start creating a new collection?
Inspiration comes from everywhere: people, materials, colors, the eighties, nature, ancient cultures, a mood or state of mind. It´s mostly a clash of all that happennig simultaneously.
- What kind of work or material do you prefer?
When it comes to work, techniques or materials, the choices are many. From gemstones, plastics, found objects, beads, discarded materials. It´s mostly the project needs, not entirely my choice. But generally I prefer colorful, noble and versatile materials that make me happy.
- What are your points of reference in the world of contemporary jewelry and art?
Honestly, is not only one point of reference. I really tend to explore multiple points of view and then exeriment my own way. From Zulu beadwork, to ancient precolumbian, to pop culture, to fine arts and then back. I find beautiful many different ways of expression, to me the mixture of all that gives a new form of dialogue I like to dive in.
- Three words with which you would describe the Artistar Jewels project.
Professional, challenging, enriching.
- What do you think of the jewels that were on show this year? Have you been fascinated by any particular creation?
The entire exhibition worked perfectly as a whole. The high artistic and skilled leved is surprising. Loved the way so many different art form could coexist in harmony.
- How would you define the atmosphere created on the 22nd and 23rd February nights of Artistar Jewels 2018?
The atmosphere was great, many things to see, many people to talk to. To me, was great because I had the chance to see in person the quality of the works and the persons behind them.
- Would you recommend to other artists to take part in Artistar Jewels?
I would absolutely recommend Artistar to my collegues.
- What were the services / opportunities that most pushed you to participate in the event?
The whole event is very appealing in general. From the exhibition beautifully set, the exclusive location in Milan, the amazingly printed catalogue and the opportunity to meet in person the creators and so many exciting artists.