Tomasz Donocik discusses positive creative clashes and artistic dilemmas. Interview by Carla Seipp

Tomasz-donocik

Dear Diane and Shaded Viewers,

Tomasz Donocik's work is an intriguing fusion of literature, architecture and surrealism that challenges stereotypical notions of male jewellery design. Since completing his BA degree at Central Saint Martins and MA at the Royal College of Art, Donocik has gone on to receive accolades such as Goldsmiths' Jewellery Designer of the Year award and praise from the likes of Hilary Alexander.

The Poland-born, Austria-raised and London-based designer sat down in his Shoreditch studio to discuss material experimentation, the challenges of designing for both genders and his past as an installation artist.

 

How would you describe your brand in five words? 

Bold, masculine, unconventional, sinister, storytelling.

Just looking around your studio one can see that you have taxidermy bats, skulls and an antique mix of things. How would you describe your aesthetic?

The bugs and taxidermy I love. I collect them because when I am designing something, I can sketch from them in 3D. I have always liked history and museums, this Victorian or curiosity cabinet type of style.

Your signature piece is the Chesterfield sofa-based bracelet, which is quite interesting as it takes furniture and makes it into a jewellery piece. Are there any other unexpected things that you would like to put into jewellery form? 

The Chesterfield was an obsession and fascination of mine. I had that idea in my head for years. It was a great success, pushed the boundaries, and mixed leather, diamonds and silver to create something which people look at and go,

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