Christie’s Paris Joaillerie Online Auction designers presented by Second Petale showcase the unusual works of handpicked jewellery designers.
Arina Pouzoullic launched her jewellery gallery, Second Petale, in 2019 as a digital artistic space to showcase curated works of art. The founder and curator, who’s always been passionate about jewellery and art, aims to promote intimate groups of “unknown and emerging designers as well as a notorious artist” through high profile events, exhibitions and collaborations. “The role of the curator is to create opportunities for the audience and designers, while being a bridge that connects the collector and the artist. I like to create opportunities in ways that are innovative and beneficial to everyone involved; the initiative Jewellery Talent of Today is one such example,” she explains.
Second Petale has teamed up with Christie’s Paris Joaillerie for the online auction that runs till July 5. “The international mega institution Christie’s seemed the perfect medium for the initiative. We worked hand-in-hand with the team in Paris to present this unprecedented initiative. I am grateful to Violaine d ́Astorg, Head of Jewellery and Mafalda Chenu, Jewellery Specialist, for making this possible,” adds Arina.
Her tribe includes Kayo Saito, Chiara Passoni, Sarah Ho, Tomasz Donocik, and Ulla and Martin Kaufmann – designers noted for their unique designs and artistic identity. “They focus on craftsmanship to create timeless and relevant designs beyond geographical boundaries,” she explains. The audience, observes Arina, wants to see things they’ve never seen before and learn more about art. “Brands, like any business, major or emerging, need a relevant, qualitative clientele and broad exposure. So, when you show your art to a global audience, it is an unprecedented opportunity for the artist. This is an important opportunity because it is not only about the customer value proposition but also about the industry’s value proposition. Jewellery Art is being promoted, while designers get the international spotlight and endorsement of their artistic rating in a global art market,” she elaborates.
Tomasz had always wanted to showcase his pieces through art galleries and auction houses like Christie’s. “Arina and Christie’s asked us to only make one piece for the auction. Since it is a collective exhibition of jewellery talents, all pieces had to be curated and had to work well together. My emerald and diamond Cosmic drop earrings seem the perfect fit; Art Deco with a modern twist to bedazzle the wearer,” he adds.
Kayo’s unique sculptural jewellery references a hybrid of Japanese and European aesthetics and techniques. The Primavera Necklace, forged in 18-karat gold, is an artful composition tricked out in delicate textured gold leaves, evocative of Spring.
Chiara, on the other hand, veers towards eclectic material such as wood, precious stones, mammoth tusk, prehistoric shark teeth and horns for her design. The water buffalo Horn Cuffs from the Italian jeweller’s collection, Africa Queen, are bold and stylish pieces that engage you in a “fashion forward” dialogue.
With their unparalleled skills and techniques, Ulla and Martin Kaufmann deftly explore boundaries in wearables informed by elegant lines, unique shapes and volume. Their Tira bracelets, in 18-karat gold, form part of the Jewellery Talent of Today showcase.
Sarah Ho, who has worked with auction houses before, loved the idea of promoting contemporary jewellery design at the prestigious auction. “It sounded perfect. Second Petale, Christie’s and I share the same values of design and craftsmanship in high jewellery; so, to work together has been wonderful,” she says.
Her Emerald Daisy earrings, designed and produced during the lockdown, are part of the Christie’s lot. These earrings – made almost entirely from “repurposed” stones – feature emeralds and opals. “Both the gems that came from two different places are given a new lease of life. This “recycling” is just one facet of my sustainable and responsible practice for creating my jewellery designs,” says the Monaco-based jeweller. “We are promoting the auction to our online followers and clients and anticipate that the interest will continue to gain momentum until the auction hammer finally falls.” Sarah has an eye for colour and finds inspiration in intricate details seen in embroidery and beading. “Her Emerald Daisy earrings are a fabulous dance of 122 gems,” notes Arina. “This dedicated initiative for independent contemporary designers is the first of its kind at Christie’s and I hope it continues,” adds Sarah.