August 2024 - JCCAC 動向

#NoPainNoFilter

Perseverance of an Artisan

Carmen So

2024

08

"I enjoy incorporating different materials into my work. For example, the piece may include a gemstone or rock which has the millennia in its substance, and a tuft of cat fur which carries shared memories - the jewellery piece becomes a vessel for preserving such internal meanings."

Carmen So

Carmen So (L5-20) is an artist whose primary practices are metalwork and illustration. She graduated from The Academy of Visual Arts at Hong Kong Baptist University in 2019. She currently works in art education and is founder of the jewellery brand Stone Whisper. Her experience in design and museum work has enriched her imagination and understanding of the art of metalwork.

Carmen So excels in creating whimsical artworks that express the appreciation of life and explore questions of values in life. Her goal is to challenge preconceived notions and stereotypes, drawing inspiration from various relationships in life. Her previous research focused on her connection with the natural world, incorporating natural elements into her works through craftsmanship. Her artworks have been exhibited in Full Moon Reunion-A Pilgrimage Into Nature exhibition, Hong Kong (2021) and the themed exhibition Imperfection is Perfection (2023).

Through her artworks, Carmen So articulates and embodies reflections on the self and societal phenomena. The fusion of contemporary art and metalwork jewellery establishes a unique connection between the wearer and the various adornments. This connection goes beyond artistic expression, serving as contemplation of the individual and society. Her works lead viewers into an imaginative and creative world, where art intertwines with everyday life, inspiring people to reconsider and appreciate the things around them.

Starry Ring
Photo courtesy of the Artist

Q1. J

Did you dream of becoming a jewellery designer when you were little?

A1. C

I have always dreamt of having my own artist studio, and had wanted to become a jewellery designer since I was in high school. I had little exposure to the industry as it was not a subject in the normal school curriculum, but at university I learnt about metalwork and contemporary artistic jewellery, and that marked the beginning of my journey into the world of jewellery design. Much later, I pursued my dream and had my own artist studio – mainly for jewellery-making and teaching metalwork.

Q2. J

Has the enduring nature of jewellery and accessories influenced your perspective on time and life?

A2. C

To me, jewellery embodies the concept of heritage, as traditionally jewellery pieces are passed down from one generation to the next. I also believe that jewellery is a form of legacy left by the various elements of the world. By incorporating different elements into jewellery, it is as if we are recording the evolution and history of all things.

I enjoy incorporating different materials into my work. For example, the piece may include a gemstone or rock which has the millennia in its substance, and a tuft of cat fur which carries shared memories – the jewellery piece becomes a vessel for preserving such internal meanings.

Gothic Window
Photo courtesy of the Artist

EYE
Photo courtesy of the Artist

Q3. J

What are the advantages and challenges of working in the jewellery industry in Hong Kong? What would you say to students interested in entering the field?

A3. C

Hong Kong is one of the world’s major jewellery trading hubs and the third largest exporter of fine jewellery and accessories globally, which naturally translates to more business opportunities. That is the general perception that people have about the industry in Hong Kong.

For young artists, the challenge lies in the fact that they may not easily find the audience for their innovative ideas due to the generally conservative taste of the public. High operating costs also hinder the creative drive.

Despite these challenges, I would still encourage young people with dreams of entering the industry to not give up pursuing their own unique style and making it their competitive edge.

Q4. J

Which natural element do you most enjoy incorporating into your jewellery pieces?

A4. C

I particularly like using rocks and stones, to show their unique beauty through my imagination. I don’t limit my creativity to gemstones and precious material – I find great joy imbuing seemingly insignificant objects with life and value, transforming the easily overlooked into the intriguing and elegant.

Black Heart
Photo courtesy of the Artist

Shiny Choker
Photo courtesy of the Artist

Q5. J

What personality traits help make a successful metalsmith? Do you have them naturally or did they develop over time?

A5. C

Patience!

Curiosity and an investigative spirit!

I am passionate about the pursuit of knowledge to satisfy my curiosity. The patience required in this process, however, is something I have developed over time, as without patience, it is difficult to achieve success in any endeavour.