Interview with Anna Vlahos

Do you think that jewellery is being standardized? What is there of local and universal in your artistic work?
I suppose in some ways there is standardizing, with the internet and social media, there is so much jewellery to be seen that trends are bound to form. But I think with contemporary jewellery in particular, there are so many materials and techniques open to an artist, and with each artist drawing on their own histories, their own education, their own experience and tastes, that there is real diversity. For me, my work draws a lot of inspiration from the natural world, and I don't think there is a more universal theme, but my time living in Greece, and being influenced by the history here, I certainly see that inspiration seeping into my designs. Now in my work I think about the way artisans thousands of years ago viewed the natural world, and how their work was swallowed up by the environment and reclaimed for thousands of years.

What do you expect when exposing your work to the public (for example with an exhibition)?
I create my pieces with nods to both the natural and historical. I hope for a viewer to get a sense of seeing objects that could come from a newly discovered horde or something equally at home on the forest floor.

Are other areas besides the jewellery, present in your work?
I originally studied printmaking at university, and I can see always two dimensional influences and pattern making influencing my work. I am inspired a lot by the geometric patterns of ancient greek artists, so in some of my pieces I use the aid of computer programs to create my own geometric patterns.

The last work, book, film, city that has moved me was...
I recently read The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson.

A place, space, country whose creativity surprises me...
Last year I visited for the first time the museum at Vergina in Greece, which contains the tombs of the family of Alexander the Great. It is a wonderful collection of artifacts, but on top of that, the space itself is one of the most beautiful and thoughtful museum spaces I've ever visited.

Is there any designer, jeweller, artist, you appreciate a lot?
So many- from ancient times, to the folk era, to today. I love the Mycenaean jewellery collection here in Athens, and contemporary artists such as Helen Britton and Lucy Sarneel.

What piece or work has given you the most satisfaction?
I think it always tends to be the piece you are currently working on. At least when it finally gets resolved. Sometimes a piece does not want to be your friend that way. My Lion Flower earrings would fit into that category.

Do you read Jewellery Magazines? What is your source to get information?
I would say Klimt02 is usually my first stop!

Do you discuss your work with other jewellery artists or any other person?
Not a lot. I tend to be a bit hermit like with my work and studio time, but it is nice to break out of this from time to time.

What is your first thought when you hear the word Future?, What do you expect for?
Who can know! I will keep working hard, and try to be nice to the earth, and hopefully that is the right thing.