We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Cherinadded about their original and creative Fashion Accessory design work. Cherinadded is an award-winning fashion designer, that makes our world a better place with their original fashion accessory works.
Cherinadded ("Cherinadded") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Silk Bloom Fashion Accessory . Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
Cherinadded : The driving force behind Cherinadded is the innovative combination of three distinct materials to craft something unique, something that embodies both functionality and movement. Our designs consistently feature the circular shape as the key design element, an homage to the timeless and universal symbol of unity and wholeness. One of our standout designs, Silk Bloom, draws inspiration from the pioneering concepts of Vladimir Tatlin. Known as the inventor of the collage technique in fine arts, Tatlin was an artist unafraid of charting new territories. Despite facing opposition, he firmly held on to his conviction that art should not be a mere act of plagiarism, but rather, it should incessantly seek new shapes, new expressions. He had a daring vision to liberate art from the constraints of wall-mounted canvases, bringing it into the dynamic space of the viewer. Tatlin experimented with a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and glass, and conceived the idea of art as something "hanging" – a notion that naturally leads to the concept of "dynamism." His audacious approach resonated with me profoundly, and I sought to embody his philosophy in my work. The Silk Bloom brooch is a direct tribute to Tatlin's vision. Its design breaks away from traditional conventions, as if the brooch is defying gravity, floating in mid-air. This is art that is not merely to be observed but interacted with, it "hangs for movement." By blending three types of materials, we've imbued the Silk Bloom brooch with a distinctive identity that tells a story—a story of innovation, audacity, and meticulous craftsmanship. It's a testament to the ethos of Cherinadded: We're not just creating accessories; we're bringing to life new chapters in the evolving narrative of art and design.
Cherinadded : My primary aim is to redefine art—to make it accessible, comprehensible, and affordable, a daily source of inspiration for everyone. I admit, there are artworks, especially some paintings, that are challenging to grasp. Their complexity often hinders the inspirational connection that should exist between the art and the observer. My studies in fine arts opened my eyes to certain preconceptions that I found too restrictive. I recall a professor once saying, "if it's too perfect, it's not art." But who gets to define these boundaries? In my view, both perfection and imperfection can birth art, as long as the "object" stirs the audience, provoking thought or emotion, it's art. I dream of a world where the realms of art and design converge, which led me to the concept of intensively studying and blending three types of materials. There's a certain allure inherent in each material, and I believe the techniques used in fine arts can be adapted innovatively in applied arts. It would be unfortunate if these techniques, often viewed as esoteric, were used in ways that most people couldn’t appreciate. So, I selected three well-known materials, and I applied my fine art skills to them. The result? The materials, under my guidance, naturally reveal their perfection and imperfection, creating unique pieces that are both art and design. It’s my way of pushing boundaries and making art a more inclusive, engaging, and inspiring experience for all.
Cherinadded : Looking ahead, I envision Cherinadded flourishing and establishing a strong foothold in Europe. We aim to showcase our handcrafted jewelry and accessories on an international platform, reaching audiences who can truly appreciate the dedication and heart that goes into each piece. Winning this award has not only validated my work but also fuelled my drive to push further. It's a constant reminder that my efforts have not been in vain. Therefore, positioning my creations, and indeed myself, in the right places at the right time and before the right audience is crucial. My hope is that we'll soon have the opportunity to sell our products overseas, allowing our brand to reach new heights and, in turn, let more people experience the blend of art and design that Cherinadded embodies.
Cherinadded : The creative process is often nonlinear and time-fluid. If I were to encapsulate the journey of my designs, I would say it began right from the inception of Cherinadded. It has been a cumulative process spanning nine years, filled with constant learning, developing, and refining both myself and my designs. Thus, I would saythat each design essentially takes about a year, give or take, to evolve from conception to reality. However, the duration can vary as each piece brings its own complexities and unique challenges that require different amounts of time to address and perfect.
Cherinadded : The genesis of Cherinadded was never a commissioned assignment; rather, it was born out of a profound love and passion I harbor for both fine art and applied art. Finding myself unable to choose between the two, I decided to embrace both roles – that of an artist and a designer. Interestingly, a majority of my designs are stirred by inspiration from renowned artists like Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, Yves Klein, Marina Abramović, and Vladimir Tatlin. Each artist offers a unique perspective that I translate into my designs. Concept, I believe, is a fundamental aspect of any design work. The inspiration for the Silk Dream brooch, for instance, came from Tatlin's ideas. One of Cherinadded's design principles is the incorporation of movement, and Tatlin's concept of "Dynamism" seemed a perfect fit. Inspired by this, I created a brooch that not only adorns but also interacts. The centerpiece, a cylindrical acid etching plate, is delicately balanced on a ceramic tube, free to move and even detach if desired. The design thus interacts with its wearer—swaying to the rhythm of a walk when pinned to a shirt or matching the swing of a handbag. An ivory white tassel adorns the etched plate beneath, adding a touch of softness and further enhancing the sense of movement. The playful curve of the ceramic tube comfortably fits a collar, wrist, or neck, further illustrating Cherinadded's ethos—creating designs that display aesthetics through movement.
Cherinadded : Cherinadded is all about celebrating the skill and artistry of Thai craftsmanship. We take pride in producing our own work. Our team is a collective of talented artisan craftsmen including ceramicists, brass workers, jewelry makers, painters, and shoemakers, along with myself. We are not planning to lease production rights or partner with another company for production. Each piece we create is a testament to our dedication and collective skills, ensuring the quality and authenticity of our designs.
Cherinadded : I've always had an inclination towards simplicity and comfort in my attire, both formal and informal. Life is complicated enough, so why should our clothes add to the complexity? However, I've often found myself yearning for a touch of extraordinary to break the monotony of my everyday wear. It's this desire to embellish the ordinary with a unique flair that inspired the birth of Cherinadded. I realized that like me, there are many people out there who crave a blend of comfort and uniqueness in their style. They want to stand out, but without sacrificing the ease of a simple t-shirt and denim or a basic dress. This led me to design my unique line of fine-craftsmanship jewelry and accessories. The beauty of these pieces lies in their versatility - they can transform a simple outfit into a stunning ensemble, enhancing everyday wear with an element of sophistication and style. So, in essence, Cherinadded is my answer to that universal quest for comfort infused with a dash of distinctiveness.
Cherinadded : Yes, several artists and their innovative ideas have greatly influenced my designs at Cherinadded. Yayoi Kusama: Kusama's philosophy of embracing the extraordinary has inspired Cherinadded's designs, making the Silk Blooms a unique piece of art that challenges conventional notions of a brooch. Her signature use of polka dots has influenced our consistent use of circular elements in every design, reflecting her style and creative vision. Jeff Koons: The brooch design at Cherinadded pays homage to Koons's art, particularly his interpretation of virality and smoothness in semi-circular forms. Koons's art, with its delicate, fragile-looking tubular shapes, has profoundly influenced the design of our brooches. His idea of connecting hollow tubes to other objects has been ingeniously incorporated into our ceramic brooch designs. Vladimir Tatlin: His concept of "dynamism" has been integral to the design of Silk Bloom. Tatlin believed that good art involves a focus on novelty, unique shapes, and experimentation. He thought that art shouldn't merely be confined to walls. In resonance with this, Cherinadded's Silk Dream brooch was designed to appear as though it was floating in the air, reimagining how we interact with and perceive jewelry.
Cherinadded : Cherinadded's designs target a discerning clientele that appreciates art and seeks novel experiences without a hefty price tag. Our designs cater to three primary groups: Group 1: High-end customers with substantial purchasing power. These individuals are typically collectors who appreciate the uniqueness and artistic merit of our products. Group 2: Empowered women who hold decision-making power in their purchases and are drawn towards distinctive, limited-edition products. Group 3: The LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) demographic. This group comprises consumers from all age brackets who lead lifestyles significantly different from those of traditional mass-market consumers. They seek products that nurture their mental and physical health. Our designs, such as the Cherinadded Brooch, aim to appeal to individuals who value the melding of art with functionality. Through our creations, we strive to influence how consumers perceive and feel about their purchases, offering them the dual joy of experiencing aesthetic beauty and practical utility in tandem.
Cherinadded : The Silk Dreams Brooch stands apart due to its unique amalgamation of traditional and modern elements that encapsulate cultural heritage. A key distinguishing feature is the use of tassels, dyed white to mimic women's hair and crafted from Thai silk, bringing an elegant and feminine touch to the design. Moreover, the choice of resilient and organic materials such as brass and ceramics gives the piece longevity, making it a sustainable option for consumers. But what truly sets the Silk Dreams Brooch apart is its intricate blend of hand-painted ceramics, Thai silk, and brass etching, resulting in a distinctive and cohesive design. This versatile piece of jewelry is designed to complement any outfit and can be fastened to various items like clothing, handbags, and scarves. Perhaps most importantly, the Silk Dreams Brooch invites its wearers to engage their creativity, exploring different ways to wear it and express their personal style. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this brooch contributes to a greater cause by fostering cultural preservation and promoting sustainable design practices.
Cherinadded : The name "Silk Blooms" is a reflection of my vision and aspiration for the brand Cherinadded. The word "Bloom" typically refers to the blossoms themselves, or symbolizes the peak or ideal moment for something. This word has its roots in "blóm," which means flower. I believe that now is the moment for Cherinadded to bloom to its fullest. It encapsulates my dream of doing what I love and creating a beautiful paradise to share with others. This journey is akin to cultivating a flower garden, starting from the initial sowing of seeds until it transforms into a lush and vibrant landscape. The name "Silk Blooms" expresses my conviction that this design can flourish and offer aesthetic appeal and much more to the world. I have strong faith in my design, and I can think of no better word than "Blooms" to encapsulate this anticipation and waiting for the day to shine. Being honored with this golden award is a confirmation that Cherinadded is indeed blooming. There truly is no better name than "Silk Blooms" to reflect this journey and achievement.
Cherinadded : The creation of my designs is a harmonious blend of traditional techniques and modern technology. The process begins with fundamental tools such as pens, pencils, watercolors, and a sketchbook. These tools help me to capture the preliminary essence of my ideas, creating a framework for the ensuing design development. Simultaneously, the role of technology in my design process is significant. I frequently utilize an iPad accompanied by a digital pen, which gives me the flexibility to experiment with color schemes, shapes, and forms effortlessly. Various design applications available on the platform provide a sandbox for creative exploration. As I move closer to the final stages of design, comprehensive design software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator come into play. These applications allow for meticulous refining and color compatibility testing of my designs, averting potential lengthy revisions later on. The iPad serves as a digital canvas, a platform for me to manifest and iterate on my concepts freely. This tool enhances my creative process and significantly expedites it, saving me substantial time. Though I use some digital instruments like a digital painting pad, my design toolbox predominantly consists of conventional tools. The tangible experience of sketching, painting, and noting ideas in a physical journal keeps me grounded and focused on my creative vision. In terms of inspiration, books have always been an invaluable asset. I delve into a wide variety of books, encompassing design, art, fiction, and non-fiction. They provide diverse perspectives and continual inspiration, although I am discerning about the books I choose, as not every book resonates with my aesthetic sensibility.
Cherinadded : In addition to the concept and materials, one of the unique aspects of my designs is their multi-functional versatility. The Silk Dreams brooch, for instance, is designed not only to adorn clothing but can also be attached to handbags, scarves, and other accessories. This flexibility allows for an exploration of personal style, and customers can express themselves in various ways depending on the occasion. Moreover, the brooch's design emphasizes movement and dynamics. Influenced by the concept of "Dynamism" by Vladimir Tatlin, the acid-etched brass plate at the center of the brooch is free to move around the ceramic tube. Depending on how it's worn, it can move with the rhythm of the wearer's step or swing to the rhythm of a handbag. This interaction between the wearer and the accessory creates a personalized and ever-changing aesthetic experience. Lastly, the intricate hand-made elements add a unique touch to the design. Each brooch is crafted meticulously by Thai artisans, resulting in a piece of jewelry that is not only beautiful and functional but also has a personal, human touch. This focus on fine craftsmanship sets the design apart from mass-produced accessories. So, the unique aspect of my design lies in the interplay of these elements - the thoughtful conceptualization, choice of materials, functional versatility, dynamic movement, and the intricate, hand-made quality. I
Cherinadded : Each collaboration adds an essential layer to the overall design, transforming the initial concept into a tangible piece of art. The ceramic artisans, for instance, bring my designs to life with their mastery of ceramics. They create each component with precision and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the ceramic parts of the brooch are both beautiful and durable. The brass craftsmen, on the other hand, lend their expertise to the process of brass etching. Their skills in this ancient technique add a distinctive touch to the brooch, giving it an air of elegance and sophistication. The jewelry makers and assemblers play a vital role in the final stages of the design process. They carefully put all the components together, ensuring that the final product is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and easy to wear. Working with these experts not only allows me to create high-quality products, but also provides me with valuable insights and new ideas. Each collaborator's unique skills and experiences contribute to the design process, enriching the final product and making each piece truly one of a kind.Production
Cherinadded : While the initial design process often starts with traditional tools like sketches and physical models, technology comes into play for refinement and execution. Digital software tools such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are crucial in refining the designs, adding precision to the sketches, adjusting color schemes, and visualizing the final product. This process aids in spotting potential design issues that might be overlooked in a purely physical design process. The production process also involves technology, such as computer-guided machinery used in the precise crafting of the ceramic and brass components. This ensures the highest level of precision and consistency across every single piece produced. In the case of Silk Blooms, technology aids not just in the design process but also in its versatility and adaptability. The piece is designed in a way that can be worn or used in multiple ways, responding to the lifestyle of a modern user who values both aesthetics and functionality. Lastly, in this digital age, technology also plays a significant role in marketing and selling the design. From high-quality photography for online catalogues, e-commerce platforms for sales, to social media for marketing and customer engagement, technology is an integral part of the entire lifecycle of the product.
Cherinadded : While my designs aren't directly influenced by hard data or analytical research, they are certainly informed by an understanding of my target audience's tastes, desires, and lifestyle, which is a form of qualitative research. For the Silk Dreams brooch, I was inspired by my personal aesthetic preferences and my understanding of what kind of design elements would appeal to my target market. I also looked at the work of artists who have influenced me, and studied various materials and production techniques. In-depth study of my materials was critical. Understanding the properties of ceramics, brass, and silk, their strengths and weaknesses, how they respond to different crafting processes, and how they interact with each other, formed a crucial part of my research. I also researched traditional craftsmanship techniques and how they could be integrated into my design. This included visiting artisans, observing their craft, understanding their tools and techniques, and finding ways to incorporate these age-old practices into a modern design. In essence, my design process is a fusion of intuitive creativity and focused research to ensure my designs are both aesthetically pleasing and practical for use.
Cherinadded : In addition to ceramics and brass work, silk also poses its own set of challenges. Silk is a delicate material that needs to be handled with care. We need to consider the dyeing process, the type of dye to be used, and how the silk will react to it. Achieving the desired color and effect on silk is a complex process, often involving multiple dyeing stages. Furthermore, integrating the three different materials - ceramics, brass, and silk - into a single, cohesive design is a challenge in itself. Each material has its own characteristics and requires different handling and production techniques. The design and production process had to account for these differences to ensure the integrity and durability of the final product. Also, from a design perspective, the Silk Dreams Brooch had to be not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and versatile. It needed to be lightweight and comfortable to wear, but also robust enough to withstand regular use. Designing a piece that could be worn in various ways, from being pinned to clothing or a handbag, to being worn as a necklace, required careful thought and planning. Overall, each challenge faced in the design and realization of the Silk Dreams Brooch has served as a valuable learning experience and has further honed my skills as a designer. Every obstacle has been an opportunity to find creative solutions and push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of art and design.
Cherinadded : After spending years developing my craft in Thailand, a country where art and design are often not given their due recognition, I felt a compelling need to step beyond the familiar confines and engage with a broader, global audience. I was in search of validation, not just for my own skills and dedication, but for the tireless efforts of the craftsmen with whom I collaborate. Over the past decade, I've witnessed numerous Thai artists and craftsmen struggle for recognition and fair compensation. It's a painful reality that many talented individuals in our field can't make a sustainable living from their craft. Furthermore, the lack of serious engagement with art and design in our society has led to a frustratingly conservative and restrictive environment for creative exploration. This international design competition presented an opportunity to break free from this cycle, to venture out of the 'swimming pool' and into the 'ocean', if you will. Regardless of the outcome, the very act of participating is liberating and empowering. The process of preparing a submission has been a journey of self-discovery and introspection. Writing the design narrative and collating the necessary documentation allowed me to reflect on my journey as a designer, to understand where I am and where I want to go. It's been an invaluable learning experience, and a chance to hone my ability to present and communicate my design philosophy to a diverse audience. In essence, entering this competition is a statement of self-belief and a tribute to the craftmanship that forms the backbone of my designs. It's a stepping stone towards creating a space where the work of artisans from developing countries like Thailand is appreciated and celebrated.
Cherinadded : Designing the Silk Blooms was an enriching journey that expanded my skillset and my perspective on design. I've learned a vast range of techniques related to ceramics, brass, and silk. The process of incorporating these unique elements into jewelry and accessory design has honed my ability to tackle challenging problems and come up with creative solutions. I've also realized the infinite potential of design. As I delved deeper into the realm of these materials, I began to see endless opportunities for Cherinadded to evolve and create more unique, groundbreaking designs. One of the most significant personal improvements I experienced was the shift in my mindset. I learned to see struggles and discomfort as signs of learning and growth, rather than obstacles. This belief has pushed me to continue exploring, experimenting, and stepping outside my comfort zone, and it's become a cornerstone of my approach to design. Research and analysis also proved to be invaluable tools during this process. The ability to critically analyze my own work and conduct comprehensive research allowed me to better understand the design landscape and identify areas for improvement and innovation. Overall, the design process for the Silk Blooms was a transformative experience. It was more than just creating a product; it was a journey of personal and professional growth. I learned that belief is a powerful tool, and that when it is combined with perseverance and creativity, there's no limit to what you can achieve.
Cherinadded : The Silk Blooms were made out of love and the inherent value and beauty of handmade work. In an era where mass-production and speed often take precedence, the artistry and attention to detail offered by skilled craftspeople cannot be understated. The Silk Blooms brooch, a symbol of the skilled craftsmanship, isn't just a piece of jewelry, it's a testament to the love, dedication, and artistry of the hands that shaped it. Handicrafts embody a richness and depth that machine-made products often lack. Every stitch, every brushstroke, every etched line is a testament to the craftsman's skill and personal touch. This makes every piece unique and imbued with a certain charm that can only come from being crafted by hand. Yet, artisans often go unappreciated in our modern society, and this can make it difficult for them to continue their craft. As the founder of Cherinadded, I am deeply committed to supporting these talented individuals, honoring their skills, and providing a platform where their work can be appreciated. By purchasing a piece from Cherinadded, you're not only investing in a beautiful, unique product. You're also supporting an artisan, preserving a piece of cultural heritage, and promoting the continuation of these valuable skills. I believe in the irreplaceable value of handmade crafts and the artisans behind them. Cherinadded is not just about creating beautiful jewelry, it's about promoting craftsmanship, preserving tradition, and making sure these artisans and their skills are recognized and appreciated. Our work is a labor of love, and we're proud to share it with the world.
