Reflection

This is the IHAWU pendant 

After my exhibition I had a sit down with John who is the moderator and we spoke about how he sees my work and he suggested a few things. One thing that stuck out for me was how most of my designs are literal which limits my creativity and ability to unpack the concept even further. Going forward I plan to look at the old functions of traditional Zulu designs and how they relate to modern ways of doing things. 

As an artist I need to start designing from inside out meaning rather than to focus on the final product I need to design based on the function of the object or design and do not be literal, give my design process the space to grow and change. As I will be using the Qualitative Research methodology I need to be able to plan on how I will be approaching a design in different angles, have a clear action plan since my work will involve new techniques.

I need to give myself time to look ate the work I have done and also give other people a chance to critic it so I can be improve it and also reflect on all the feed back I will be getting from different people whether it is in person or through the internet and other social media platforms. The concept of adding the abstract approach is exciting for because as much as I have not done it but subconciously I have always wanted to explore it I just did not have enough knowledge on it. 

Merging Old Functions with New Techniques

This is a Wood-Grouse by Moiseikin

Viktor Moiseikin emphasizes the blend of tradition and innovation, technology, and aesthetic beauty as the brand's signature style (“MOISEIKIN” n.d.). Moiseikin employs modern jewellery-making techniques to create pieces that go beyond jewellery, resembling artworks.

Merging Old Functions with New Techniques

This is a Kandinsky inspired ring by Carlo Palmieri

Pioneers such as Wassily Kandinsky were instrumental in this shift, examining the spiritual and emotional dimensions of art through non-representational styles.

Russian Gems jewellers find inspiration in Kandinsky's abstract paintings, transforming the idea from a painting to jewellery (Bz.2022c). The use of technology and new techniques is important due to changes in times and craftsmanship, considering the purpose of the ideas being repurposed. 

Merging Old Functions with New Techniques

This is an image of Kandinsky.

Abstract art is art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but instead uses shapes, colours, forms and gestural marks to achieve its effect.

Wassily Wassilyevich Kandinsky was a Russian painter and art theorist. He's often recognized as one of the first to use abstraction in Western art.

Iziqhaza Finale

After making them with plane silver I looked at them and thought about setting stones on them which is like my signature thing to do whenever I am making a piece of jewellery and this was the final outcome and I am happy with it.

Iziqhaza 2.1

This is me testing out the final product.

 I had finished making Iziqhaza and I was wearing them so I can feel them out if they are wearable and not heavy since they are made with metal.

Iziqhaza 2.0

This is the manufacturing process.

Here I am busy cutting up the horn so that it can fit inside the frame that I have made out of silver.

 

Picture pendant

Picture pendant 

 This is a picture pendant and I thought of making one because of how it kind of looks like the earrings I made called Iziqhaza. 

Plexi glass earrings

This is the image of the progress

These are the earrings I’m working on for a collaboration between me and a Fashion Design student and her name is Siziwe.

 

3rd Term DISPLAY

This is an image of the display.

Today I had to display the piece I have been working on this term, and we as the 4th year students had to look at each others work and review it. 

The comments I got for my work is that I could maybe dive deep into the origin of the actual horn that I'm using as the part of the story and that was from Siphelele. The other thing that Thashmira asked was that will I be settings stones on the Iziqhaza earrings and my answer was yes I will be doing that for my final exhibition.

 

Iziqhaza

This is an image of different Iziqhaza.

 This is an image of Iziqhaza which are earplugs that are used by Zulu people and I’m currently working on creating one with horn and silver to match with my horn cup.

Miss SA Crown

This is the new Miss SA Crown made by Nungu Diamonds.

The Miss South Africa crown is a coveted award presented to the pageant winner, symbolizing their triumph.
In 2023, the pageant unveiled the Mowana crown by Nungu Diamonds, adorned with 800 stones and cubic zirconia, the largest gem weighing 15 carats. 

It exudes elegance and is a creation by the renowned South African jewellery braThe crown is more than a decorative accessory; it marks the champion's status.

 The winner assumes a prestigious role, attending events as the reigning Miss South Africa, showcasing their accomplishment and elevated standing in society.

Championship Ring

 

The LGBTQ bracelet

 

DeathRow Records

 

DeathRow Chain

This is a DeathRow Chain.

Death Row Records is a renowned American music label established in 1991.

 

It became a pivotal platform for hip-hop legends like 2Pac, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre, shaping the genre's landscape. Artists signed with Death Row received distinctive chains as a symbol of affiliation.

 

The label's unique approach and association with iconic artists made it a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on the history of hip-hop.

 

LGBTQI+ Bracelet

This is a LGBTQ+ pride bracelet.

 

The LGBTQ+ bracelet is a symbolic accessory made from various colored strings, representing the rainbow.

 

Inspired by artist Gilbert Baker's vision, the bracelet embodies pride for the gay community, utilizing the beauty and diversity of the rainbow's colors as a symbol of LGBTQ+ identity.

 

Wearing the bracelet transcends specific sexual orientations; it symbolizes inclusivity for individuals identifying as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or still exploring. Additionally, allies supporting the LGBTQ+ movement can wear the bracelet to express solidarity and support.

 

Championship Ring

This a Championship Ring belonging to a NFL team called The Baltimore Ravens.

A Championship Ring is a coveted and opulent piece of jewelry presented to the triumphant team in North American professional sports leagues.
 
Crafted from luxurious materials such as gold and embellished with diamonds, these rings serve as symbols of the team's victory in their respective sport.

Championship Rings hold immense prestige, signifying the pinnacle of success in sports. Beyond adornment, they stand as tangible testaments to the team's dedication and achievement, becoming cherished mementos for players and fans alike.

Ucu (AIA)

 

Ucu

This is an image of Ucu.

Ucu is a traditional Zulu engagement ring crafted from white beads and a string. This cultural adornment holds profound significance within the context of engagement ceremonies. During this ceremonial event, a woman bestows the Ucu upon her suitor, symbolizing her acceptance of his proposal for a romantic relationship.

In instances where the woman is maintaining her virginity, a distinctive custom unfolds. She employs the assistance of fellow virgin maidens to deliver the Ucu to the man on her behalf. This practice arises from the societal norms that restrict her from directly interfacing with her prospective partner until certain conditions are met. This distinctive approach adds an extra layer of ceremonial depth to the proceedings.

The presentation of Ucu to the man conveys not only the woman's affirmation of the relationship but also augments his status within his social circle and the broader community. This revered act becomes a visible declaration that someone has chosen him, imbuing him with an elevated reputation among his peers and community members.