A regular invited exhibitor in jewellery shows in Italy, Nakano Kaoru grew up in Kyoto, near Lake Biwa. Although the location is a much loved subject of many forms of traditional Japanese culture, Nakano takes her inspiration from the contemporary spirit, from the multiplicity of sources that permeate her soul and inspire her creative instincts.
Part of an international trend in jewellery whereby the creative use of material is more significant than its intrinsic value, Nakano's works of jewellery and abstract scuplture are created from a strong fibrous material, washi, which comes from the Japanese paper mulberry tree, broussonetia kazinoki.
Washi is part of a time-honoured tradition in Japan, integral to the refined culture of the aristocracy, the world of the popular woodblock print and the beauty of the Japanese home. A testament to the resilience belied by its delicate appearance, washi jewellery from the Meiji Period remains.
Nakano layers the paper, progressing from thin to thick paper. Natural glues help preserve the paper and give it some water resistance. Formed by hand, she is able to create wonderfully textured surfaces that blend with her organic shapes to create unique expressions of jewellery art.
Tough, soft and pliable in the hands, Nakano uses silver for fastenings. Gold and silver foil, red and black lacquer extend the canvas of her creativity: 'Only a Japanese designer could marry paper and silver and make it look like a marriage made in heaven' Stephen Crafti indesign Vol.23.
ARTWORKS
Flowing 流 nagareA$3 960.00
BroochA$1 850.00
Shoulder brooch #61A$700.00
Shoulder brooch #072A$700.00
BroochA$1 430.00
Ring 4.A$1 430.00
Ring 3.A$1 430.00
BroochA$1 700.00
BroochA$1 950.00
Washi Hand PieceA$950.00
BroochA$1 700.00
Ring 1.A$1 320.00
Ring 2.A$1 320.00
BroochA$1 700.00
CuffA$1 250.00
BroochA$1 500.00
Dual strand neckpieceA$1 100.00
