Tal Efraim interviewed by MyDay-Byday

Where is you inspiration coming from?
I am inspired by the world around me. Taking note of every day objects we chose to surround ourselves with. Understanding that something in a particular object has a good influence on me (shape/color/details) allows me to translate those same feelings into my jewels.


What are you trying to communicate in particular with your artwork?
In my eyes, jewelry is all about cherishing a moment, a memory or an adventure. I try to communicate the world as I see it, knowing others will also connect to my vision and cherish their own experiences through my artwork.


Which material do you prefer to use and why?
I work mostly with royal metals such as silver and gold. Something about their eternal properties conveys the values that I love. Using these metals is also symbolic to the use of metal in traditional and historic jewelry, leaning on tradition but giving it a modern touch.


How much value do you give to researching material for your creations?
Research is a big part of my inspiration process. Knowing the values of a material allows me express myself through my jewels in the best possible way.


Is it more important to you the process, of the final artwork itself?
Both are very important. I document my process through tiny sketches, giving great depth and values to the jewels. I find that people are greatly fascinated by my sketchbooks, allowing them to truly connect to my jewels and adopt them as their own.


Is there an artist you prefer? Why?
I am not sure she calls herself an artist, but in my eyes she is. Tricia Guild is a true inspiration in how she captures beauty through interior design and textile work.


Have you ever thought to collaborate with other artists, or you like to work on your own?
I am open to collaborations. Teaching and learning from artists in my field or other fields of expertise can only result in great outcomes. I also have some great friends whom I am dreaming of collaborating with, true friendship shows through art very easily.


Where do you feel you are at with this last collection? 
This last collection Flowers of July is all about capturing a passing moment and cherishing it. It was a result of many personal experiences of the last year, the birth of my baby girl, finishing my degree and more.


Tal Efraim, Brooch: Flowers of July, 2016, Gold, fine silver, 925 silver, rubies, pearls.
7.5 x 4 x 1 cm, Photo by: Ilan Besor. From series: Connectionary


What have you discovered of yourself? Are you satisfied? 
For the first time in my life I had to highlight what my designer DNA is all about. I discovered that my process and sketchbooks give great depth to my work. I love it.


Two words to describe your last artwork collection.
Cherished memories.