Kristin Hanson
Kristin Hanson uses vegetable ivory for her new Pop Art jewel and calls attention to the fight against the illegal ivory trade.
Contemporary art has long been a catalyst for the work of jewelry designer Kristin Hanson. Among the many genres and styles she references, her interests in Pop art are seen in one of her best creations, “An ode to Wayne Thiebaud,” which pays tribute to the godfather of Pop art. Hanson’s choker is beautifully crafted in the form of a typical American donut strewn with colorful gemstones and studded with diamond icing. Handmade from 100% recycled platinum, lab-grown diamonds, leather, and a tagua nut, this piece exemplifies Kristin’s design philosophy; her creative work for years has involved a sustainable use of natural resources. The vegetable ivo- ry symbolizes Kristin’s dedication to creating art with an eco-friendly mindset. Despite its lighthearted appearance, the precious donut seeks to draw attention to the illegal ivory trade and the poaching of elephants by using a hand-carved tagua nut as its centerpiece. With this new, completely naturally resourced piece, Kristin Hanson has succeeded in creating a piece of fine jewelry that combines avant-garde design, pop references and environmental sustainability. This beautiful and exotic donut choker flirts with fashion with fun-loving attitude. Hanson’s donut is immediate and connects to all facets of society, just as great Pop art should.