In the world of contemporary jewelry design, few artists manage to blend historical inspiration with cutting-edge techniques quite like Amir Sheikhvand.
Amir Sheikhvand
An Iranian-Canadian jewelry artist, Sheikhvand has made a name for himself by creating pieces that honor the rich artistic traditions of Persia and India while pushing the boundaries of modern design. His work continues to be featured in notable exhibitions. In 2024, he participated in the "Thirty-Six Brooches" exhibition at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto. He was also invited to present at the first Iranian Contemporary Art Jewelry Exhibition in the US during New York City Jewelry Week in 2019, and his work was included in the "Wearing RED, Ignite the Fire" traveling exhibition.
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A Fusion of Traditions
Sheikhvand's collection, "Illumination: A Synthesis of Persian and Indian Artistic Traditions," draws its primary inspiration from the lavish book illustrations and painted enamel works of 15th and 16th-century Persia. During this period, Persian artists strived to achieve a harmonious balance between colors, images, and text within their manuscripts. This balance, a recurring theme in Persian art, often depicted love stories or battle scenes, with gilding and illustration playing crucial roles in enhancing the narrative.
In his work, Sheikhvand meticulously selects color combinations and forms inspired by these historical pieces. He incorporates gemstones as portions of manuscripts and prints, mounting them into wire frame settings. The result is a unique fusion of traditional aesthetics and contemporary design that speaks to both the past and the present.
What themes do you explore in your contemporary jewelry pieces?
"In my contemporary jewelry pieces, I explore themes inspired by ancient architecture, designs, and carpet and textile patterns, particularly from the region between Iran and India—a significant stretch of the Silk Road. I delve into ancient manuscripts and the grammar of ornamentation to discover new compositions, textures, and shapes. Among various sources of texture and color, my greatest teacher is nature itself. The vivid and bright colors used in Indian textiles also serve as an amazing inspiration."
Innovative Techniques and Materials
What sets Sheikhvand's work apart is his innovative use of materials and techniques. He employs a diverse range of materials, including gold, wood, brass, copper, silver, steel, gold leaf, paper, and paint. His construction methods blend traditional techniques such as Persian enameling (Mina-kary) and wood inlay (Khatam-Kary) with modern processes like 3D modeling and powder coating.
This fusion of old and new allows Sheikhvand to deconstruct and reassemble traditional Persian art forms into abstract compositions reminiscent of contemporary artworks. Key elements in his pieces include geometric forms, often cubic, combined with organic shapes and grid systems. The use of solid colors and repetition creates a visual language that bridges historical artistic traditions with contemporary aesthetics.
How do you choose nonconventional materials for your jewelry?
"When selecting nonconventional materials for my jewelry, I allow the material to guide me. The unique texture or color often catches my attention, while in other instances, the material's potential for various patination colors through processes such as oxidation, plating, anodization, enameling, and coating intrigues me. I am fascinated by how these techniques can transform the material's appearance, adding depth and character to each piece.
The technical and physical properties of the material also play a significant role in my decision-making process. Factors like weight, cutting, and shaping capabilities are essential considerations, as they differentiate one material from another. Some materials are better suited for intricate designs, while others lend themselves to bold, statement pieces. By understanding these properties, I can select the most appropriate materials for each unique design, ensuring that the final piece is not only visually stunning but also technically sound."
What are some unexpected benefits of using non-metal materials in jewelry?
"Using non-metal materials in jewelry offers several unexpected benefits. One key advantage is the weight. Non-metal materials are often lighter than traditional metals, making the jewelry more comfortable to wear, especially for larger designs.
The tools and methods of fabrication for non-metal materials can also differ significantly from those used for metals, opening up new possibilities for creativity. These materials can be manipulated in unique ways, allowing for innovative textures and finishes that are difficult to achieve with metal. The variety in texture and coloring is another major benefit. Non-metal materials can offer a broader spectrum of colors and finishes, from the natural hues of organic materials to the vibrant shades achieved through dyes and other treatments.
Additionally, non-metal materials can provide exceptional durability and resilience, sometimes outperforming metals in terms of resistance to tarnish, corrosion, and wear. This ensures that the jewelry not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time."
The Indian Influence
Sheikhvand's work also reflects the historical exchange of artistic ideas between Persia and India. During the Safavid period (1501-1736 CE), Persian art absorbed significant elements from Indian miniatures, including realistic representations of flora and fauna, artificial lighting techniques, and detailed portraiture. By incorporating these elements, Sheikhvand infuses his pieces with a sense of realism that complements the traditional Persian emphasis on harmony and balance.
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