Page 16 - Designing Ways 271

FASHION

Crafting Unique

Stories in Precious

Metals

The Journey of a
Passionate Jewellery

Designer

n the world of jewellery design, he found his sanctuary in the art class. for his custom jewellery, the choice leans
creative expression takes on new It wasn't until eleventh grade when toward 18kt yellow gold, striking a balance
Idimensions, and each piece tells a accompanied by his mother, he stumbled between workability and durability. While
story. One such talented designer, whose upon the prospect of studying jewellery clients ultimately dictate the materials
work weaves intricate narratives into design at the University of Johannesburg. used, a preference for 18kt yellow gold
stunning accessories, is paving his way The allure of this mysterious craft reflects a love for crafting the perfect piece.
through the intricate world of jewellery intrigued him, sparking a desire to Weaving is Thato’s signature technique;
design. Meet a creative spirit whose explore this hidden gem. one he aspires to master further and be
journey into the world of jewellery design This passionate artist’s distinctive sought out by clients who admire his
is an inspiring tale in itself. design style centres around the art of weaving expertise. It is the hallmark of his
It's Thato Radebe, the 34-year-old weaving, and he is one of the very few work, a symbol of his identity as a designer.
jewellery maestro and lecturer at the jewellers who makes woven jewellery in
University of Johannesburg in the heart South African. This intricate technique is Inspiration and the Creative Process
of Gauteng, South Africa. Born under the interwoven into his contemporary pieces, Unveiled
glittering lights of Johannesburg on the adding a unique touch that distinguishes Thato’s creative process is an intricate
27th of February 1989, this city has been his work in the South African jewellery dance of images, and sketches that begin
the backdrop to his incredible journey for industry. Though his custom pieces may with a message he aims to convey. Words
the better part of his life. not always feature weaving due to client and phrases converge into mind maps,
When asked about his journey into the specifications, his commitment to this which are subsequently translated into
enchanting world of jewellery design, he distinctive style sets him apart. images that represent his vision. The
explains it was an undeniable destiny, a Material choice is pivotal for a jewellery preliminary concept sketches are not
calling that beckoned him to shine designer. Favouring sterling silver for tethered to a specific piece but serve as
Thato’s design journey began with a its affordability and versatility, has been blueprints for the jewellery. The process
natural inclination towards the arts. Not perfect for the experimentation that fuels takes a twist with Computer-Aided Design
being captivated by academic subjects, Thato’s contemporary pieces. In contrast, (CAD), a crucial tool for refining and
visualizing the final piece. This digital phase
is where the magic happens, allowing him
to fine-tune his designs before commencing
the manufacturing process.
Inspiration knows no bounds for our
designer. The "Constellations" collection
on his website is a testament to this. It
draws from the concept of individual parts
uniting to create something beautiful, akin

16 Issue 271 • dw