Asimi
Greece
From the “Fairytale collection”, jewellery inspired by the granular texture of twigs mixed with the contrasting smooth lines of tiny seed pods. These are reproduced in silver and gold, and enhanced with precious stones from Madagascar. Born in England, Anna trained as a goldsmith in London and Athens, and now works in rural Greece.
- What is the name of your brand and what's the meaning behind it?
Asimi. It means “silver” in Greek. When I was living in London I didn’t want to be identified by my sex or race or any identity other than my creations, and this was the perfect disguise. I also think it is a beautiful word, but of course now that I live in Greece it sounds less exotic!
- Where do you take inspiration from when you start creating a new collection?
Most of my inspiration comes from nature, in particular when I am travelling in new and unusual habitats, as for example last year, when I went travelling in Madagascar and returned home overflowing with ideas for the pieces that I then exhibited at Artistar.
- What kind of work or material or technique do you prefer to use?
I like to mix silver and gold, or at least white with yellow gold, and always with tiny precious stones. I prefer it to look aged and organic rather than new and polished. I use so many different techniques in each piece it would be hard to mention all of them, but one of my favourites is a controlled melting process using an oxygen torch on the edge to give an appearance of molten lava or liquid.
- Three words with which you would describe the Artistar Jewels project.
Exciting, welcoming, professional.
- Have you been fascinated by any particular creation you saw in the Artistar jewels 2019 edition?
Yes, I particularly love the work of Sylvia Cruceru of Contemplativ Jewellery.
- What were the opportunities that most pushed you to participate in the event?
Always the artists’ night. For me, meeting other artists from all over the world is the highlight, as this is just not possible in general when you work as a jeweller. Also the high profile of the event itself and the publicity you organise for us.
- What do you think about the upcoming Milano Jewelry Week? Do you think Milano needed it?
I have no idea how adventurous the Milanesi are about wearing contemporary jewellery, but maybe a jewellery week is what it takes to open the eyes of the public. I think it is really important to get away from the big brands that dominate fashion week, and support the people who actually create the pieces.