The Beginning of My Jewelry Journey
My formal journey into jewelry making began when I returned to the Netherlands and enrolled in a jewelry-making and silversmithing course at Yska Eindhoven. There, I learned the foundational skills of the craft—how to shape metal, set stones, and transform raw materials into art. But it was more than just technical training; it was the beginning of a love affair with the art of jewelry making.
Exploring Creativity at the Smeltkroes
From Yska, I moved on to Smeltkroes in Eindhoven, a studio where other silversmiths and jewelry enthousiast are working. At Smeltkroes, I had the freedom to explore my designs and to experiment with ideas. The supportive community there was instrumental in helping me grow as an jewelry maker, offering both inspiration and practical advice.
Advancing My Craft at Tweek-Eek
As my skills developed, so did my passion. I knew I wanted to take my craft further, so I sought an internship at Tweek-Eek, a jewelry studio at Piet Hein Eek, run by two sisters. Their approach to jewelry making was innovative and inspiring, blending industrial tech with modern aesthetics. They guided me in learning how to plan more effectively, stay focused, and approach my work step by step. Together, we collaborated on the insignia for the Brabant Bokalen 2023, commissioned by the Cultuurfonds, and presented it at the Statenzaal in the Noordbrabants Museum, Den Bosch.
During this time, I also began to work on my own designs, slowly building the foundation for Amber Gambler. Each piece I created was infused with the spirit of those early days on the Polish beach, the connection to my grandmother, and the stories that had shaped me.
Looking Ahead: Exciting Opportunities
And for now, exciting things are on the horizon: i'll be traveling to Poland to participate in one of the first art festivals in Sopot, the hometown of my grandmother, where I’ve been invited as an artist to showcase my work. Additionally, I’m preparing for an artist residency, an opportunity that I’ll be sharing more details about soon!
X Amber
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