If you have an interest in jewellery and contemporary art, this DIVA talk is a must-see! This event brings together two exceptional designers: Maria Konschake, artist-in-residence at DIVA, and Beppe Kessler, a Dutch designer who explores boundaries and shines in the exhibition "Pinned! Contemporary Antwerp Jewellery."
Maria Konschake blurs the boundaries between critical design and art. She uses jewellery as a medium to explore socially relevant themes, with a particular focus on identity. Her work often consists of body-related objects that provoke reflection and challenge the viewer to think about the complex relationship between jewellery, identity, and memory.
Currently, Maria's research is focused on the concept of memory, using memory deviations as an artistic strategy. She explores how errors and distortions in our memory can affect our perception of identity, weaving personal and cultural dimensions into her work to offer a perspective on the fluid nature of memory and identity.
On the other hand, we have Beppe Kessler, an artist who writes her own rules. In her paintings, she uses various materials, blending and processing them until they form a single image. Her paintings always show movement – shapes change as you look at them, and the play of colour and matter creates a dynamic effect, always with a quiet strength.
Beppe describes her jewellery as 'little treasures'; miniature sculptures composed of both old and modern, often worthless materials. She combines these materials in a bold way, free from rules. Whether it is a painting, an object, or a piece of jewellery, Kessler creates her own language by questioning materials and techniques and continually seeking new possibilities. Additionally, Beppe also creates beautiful artist books, bringing her visions and techniques to life in a new way.
This DIVA talk provides an insight into the creative visions of two entirely different but equally fascinating artists. Be inspired by their innovative approaches and learn more about the deeper layers of their work.
Photo: Beppe Kessler, Brooch 'Dáár', 2011, materials: balsa wood, brass