I therefore not only investigate its visual qualities but also explore it as a usable material. Yajie Hu interviewed by Klimt02

What's local and universal in your artistic work?
As a child, I was attracted to colour. When we talked about colour normally people would be thinking about the pigment. Acrylic paint is one of the mediums I have used so far. Working with acrylic paint allows me to be in direct contact with colour. I therefore not only investigate its visual qualities but also explore it as a useable material.


What do you expect when you show your work to the public (for example, with an exhibition)?
I am always willing to communicate with audience and receive feedback or advice from them during an exhibition. It is a good opportunity to exchange different opinions and ideas with others about my work.


How important is handmade for you in your development? What role does technics and technology play in your development?
The handmade is essential to my work. Not only the process of making the jewellery, but the entire developmental phase including material experimenting and the research process. I prefer to make every step of design clearly in my sketchbook. Technology is also crucial because material exploring is the key to my work. I have been experimenting with acrylic paint since I started work on my first collection. I still work with this material and hope that I can discover some new and interesting technics in the future.


How important is wearability in contemporary jewellery? And in your pieces?
Personally, wearability is not quite necessary for every piece of contemporary jewellery and it could be just an object. But for my work, at least for now, I am trying to make my designs to be worn on the body, but also to be valued as art objects.


What/who is the biggest influence in your career?
Obviously studying contemporary jewellery is the biggest influence in my life and career. Before I studied this I could not find a specific thing that I like or I want to do for my entire life, but after I studied contemporary jewellery I found my destiny and I want to devote myself to this which is really amazing for me.


Which piece or job gave you more satisfaction?
I think every piece of my work could give me satisfaction. To be honest, it took at least 10 hours of making for every piece of my jewellery. So when it comes to the last step of making, I am happy to enjoy the whole process and expectations for the final result.


What is your source to get information?
There are many different methods to make research, for example, Klimt 02, Art Jewellery Forum,  Pinterest, Wiki and even Google.


Considering the experiences you have had over the years - if you could go back and give yourself a piece of advice for the start-up phase, what would that be?
Everything is very difficult to do from the beginning but afterwards, it will be much easier to just keep going.


Can you describe your personality in 3 words, describe your work in 3 words
My personality: passionate, adaptable and sincere.
My work: striking, exquisite and creative.