Akvile Su
Akvile Su’s metalwork is focused on the concepts of minimalism and sustainability while using traditional techniques in modern ways. It often takes a critical view of social issues—therefore she creates work with the intention of questioning gender, sexuality, jewellery and the body. Her inspirations range from exploring everyday surroundings to taking inspiration from fashion forms and more architectural designs. From this she works to refine her pieces to elegant simplicity. Combining recycled silver, gold and sterling silver, she creates gender-neutral and modern yet timeless jewellery that is both elegant and versatile to wear. We are delighted to welcome Akvile back to Elements this year, and take you behind-the-scenes and into the studio for insight into her work, process of making and creative direction.
What inspires the pieces you create?
Inspired by everything from my daily surroundings, fashion and architecture I work to refine my pieces to an elegant simplicity. I design with the modern person in mind creating jewellery that is timeless, elegant and versatile.
My work often takes a critical view of social issues and I create with the intention to ask questions about gender, sexuality, jewellery and the human body. I am particularly interested in challenging social norms surrounding jewellery: in both how it is worn and by whom. To do this I have tried to move away from separating adornments into either ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’ by striving to create gender neutral pieces.
Studio Images by Akvile Su
Hollow Rings photographed by Bethany Grace
What inspires your material choice?
In my work and personal life I deeply care about living more sustainably. Precious metal is easily recycled and durable, making it a quality material for jewellery making. Working primarily in recycled silver and sometimes gold I aim to make work in a more sustainable and ethical manner, while also using recycled materials for packaging, minimising waste wherever possible and applying eco-conscious studio practices.
Precious metal jewellery has always fascinated me and I also love the way it looks worn. The way it catches the light and changes with age, adding scuffs and marks on beloved treasures proving being worn and appreciated. In cases where a family heirloom or outdated design needs an update into a more contemporary look, recyclability comes in handy.
Models: Titana Ntsaoki; Robert Moses; Tamara Turnbull
Makeup: Jak Morgan and Shaun Lavender
Photographer: Bethany Grace
Models: Akvile Su; Robert Moses; Calum S.; Erin Young; Tamara Turnbull
Makeup: Jak Morgan and Shaun Lavender
Photographer: Bethany Grace
What techniques do you prefer to use when making?
I am someone who mainly uses traditional jewellery making techniques. Working in precious metals I focus on shape and wearability, trying to make my jewellery modern through the design itself. Always striving for the highest quality finish making pieces to last a lifetime.
Animation by Elina Karadzhova
What inspires your editorial shoots? How do these emphasise your brand ethos?
Creating strong imagery for my brand is a very important part of what I do. These days online shopping is thriving more than ever and I truly believe that having a beautifully curated online presence is crucial in the modern age.
I aim for my jewellery to be for any age, lifestyle or simply anyone with a strong sense of style and personal aesthetic. When creating my editorial campaigns I try to reflect these values by choosing a diverse representation of models, prioritizing working with female creatives and choosing gender neutral creative direction. Ultimately I just really hope my jewellery empowers people in some capacity.
Images by Bethany Grace
To learn more about Akvile Su and her work, you can find her at @suakvile on Instagram or akvilesu.com. Akvile is one of fifty makers from across the UK taking part in this years’ digital Elements: A Festival of Jewellery, Silver and Gold.
Images and video courtesy of Akvile Su
Editorial images by Bethany Grace