Emma Villedrouin
United States
She grew up in Haiti, was educated in Boston, lived in France and Brazil, now lives in Tunisia and maintains her business in Washington. Through precious metal and vibrant stones, Emma’s jewellery explores the tension between roughness and sophistication, simplicity and opulence, irregularity and symmetry.
-When did you start dedicating yourself to the world of contemporary jewellery?
As soon as I took my first jewelry class, I was hooked. I started selling my own pieces shortly thereafter and was launched professionally by the Smithsonian fine craft show in Washington, DC.
-What do you take inspiration from when you start creating a new collection?
I am inspired by everyday objects, the curl of a wrought iron railing, the depth of a stone, the silhouette of a woman- somehow everything is connected.
-What kind of work or material do you prefer?
I adore 18 carat yellow gold- there is a buttery richness to the color that I find truly beautiful.
- What are your points of reference in the world of contemporary jewelry and art?
I admire a wide range artists of all medium from around the world. I love the minimalism of Issey Miyake, the florid madness of Yayoi Kusama. Having lived in Brazil I admire the bright colors and almost artisan touch of artists like Galeno, and Karybe. I am very impressed by Kara Walker, Kahinde Wiley and Joyce J Scott. My favorite painter is Richard Diebenkorn who marries color field and realism beautifully. In jewelry I admire artists whose technical prowess is undeniable: Antonio Bernardo, Carla Amorim, Pat Flynn, Petra Class and Judith Kinghorn.
-Three words with which you would describe the Artistar Jewels project.
Eclectic, Elegant and Engaging.
-What do you think of the jewels that were on show this year? Have you been fascinated by any particular creation?
The show was beautifully curated. You found esthetic connections between a truly diverse group of artists whose individual voices are very strong and managed to make a cohesive and flowing collection. I was particularly drawn to the work of Bia Vasconcellos, Elisa Tabakman, Federica Guerini, Gaston Bijoux, May Gañán, Paulette Brooks, Susan Lenart Kazmer and Tiziano Andorno- all unknown to me. Each of these artists has a unique esthetic that draws you in.
-How would you define the atmosphere created on the 22nd and 23rd February nights of Artistar Jewels 2018?
The atmosphere at the show was very nice, elegant and sophisticated.
-Would you recommend to other artists to take part in Artistar Jewels?
I would recommend other artists to participate in the event.
- What were the services / opportunities that most pushed you to participate in the event?
I participated because I was intrigued by the venue. Milan is a center for art and fashion. I did not expect the event to be lucrative for me. I will be pleasantly surprised if I make and sales from my participation but I am not in any way disappointed. The book you produced is beautiful and the exposure to such a variety of artists is sure to be positive in the long run.
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