Global Excellence Awards 2018

www.lux-review.com Page 15 A key part of Karen’s work is her award- winning Regeneration service, where she repurposes classic pieces of jewellery into something new. This is a truly collaborative process which Karen greatly enjoys. “Clients come to me with heirloom items to be redeveloped. Often these pieces are from their parents, but in some cases I have had items from great-grandparents; the oldest item was a ring from the 1890s. I love hearing the stories of where the pieces have been, and the people who have worn them, and I have on occasion been lucky enough to be shown old photos of the original wearers. “My clients often have very strong attachments to these items and can clearly visualise their family members wearing the jewellery. The discussions evoke so many memories; a cup of tea and a box of enjoy the creative challenge of bringing to life one-off pieces made to specific requirements. Alongside this, I offer my Regeneration service for the development of heirloom items that have been handed down to my clients. The Regeneration process breathes fresh life into a cherished piece of jewellery, which evolves into a new item whilst keeping alive memories of the previous wearer.” This tailored process has been essential to Karen’s success over the years, as she is keen to highlight. “Within today’s jewellery market, which is often characterised by mass-produced, trend-driven pieces, my jewellery is distinct not only because of the designs I develop, but because of the techniques I use. Every item I make incorporates a number of individual gold wires that have been either fused, textured or shaped. Following this process, they are then built up individually piece by piece. These techniques were used prolifically in the 60s and 70s but are not commonly practised any more as technology is reshaping the industry. “When I was a child I loved playing with Lego, and in many ways I feel my work is an extension of this joy of process. The practice is slow, and I compare it to painting a piece of fine art, as every stroke applied is considered. The true joy is that however much I plan the pieces, they evolve as I make them, and come alive, making every piece its own work of art.” tissues are definitely needed whilst we chat! Together we continue the jewellery’s journey, looking at ways to develop the piece into a new artwork. The clients will tell me all their ideas and requirements and we can then define a brief for the process ahead. “Through a series of sketches, models and more discussions the finished items start to come alive. It’s really important that my clients feel comfortable at every stage, and it’s only once we have confirmed all the elements that I make the final piece. We are on a journey to develop a design that keeps all the memories of the original piece and its wearer, whilst creating a contemporary new work of art. When I present my clients with the final piece I also give them their own Regeneration photo book, which tracks the very personal development of their new jewellery from its starting point.” With regards to the future, Karen is confident that there are many exciting opportunities ahead as she seeks to collaborate with more clients and jewellery designers to enhance her already impressive portfolio. “Overall, 2018 has been very rewarding; sales have been strong, and I have met some wonderful people along the way. Looking ahead, the future is exciting for Karen Phillips Jewellery. As well as having some potential collaborations in the pipeline – one with a watch brand, which I am particularly excited about – I am also in the process of developing a new diamond collection to show for 2019. Can’t wait”. Company: Karen Phillips Jewellery Address: The Goldsmiths’ Centre, 42 Britton Street, London EC1M 5AD Telephone Number: 07977 986367 Web Address: Karenphillipsjewellery.com Before: Original heirloom cluster ring New regenerated design