Small Talk

ALICE BASTEGUIAN

Inspired by pop art, this jeweller founded Los Angeles-based brand Alice Pierre alongside her brother

Tell us about your most treasured jewellery piece.

For my 16th birthday, my grandmother gave me one of her rings, which was made by my grandfather. He made it using textured yellow gold and a turquoise marquise centre stone. It’s beautiful and has profoundly influenced my obsession with textured jewellery.

Why is your Disco collection inspired by Roy Lichtenstein’s Sunrise?

I have been collecting art books for quite some time and often look through them for inspiration. Roy Lichtenstein is one of my favourite pop artists and this painting has always resonated with me. I love his use of strong, bold lines, but there’s also a sense of warmth; when I was creating an inspiration board for Disco, his Sunrise became important.

How do the art and jewellery worlds collide?

Art is the expression of creativity and imagination, and so is jewellery. I am fascinated by the way art evokes emotion and I love to translate that into my jewellery. I’m humbled by the notion that people can wear the art I create.

What advice would you give to your younger self? Be unapologetically yourself and feel good doing it.

What do people not know about you? I have a master’s degree in communication disorders.

What did you learn from last year?

That being adaptable doesn’t necessarily mean you should shift your goals but, rather, your perspective on how to get there.

What do you hope to achieve in 2022?

My ultimate goal is to be the best version of myself. I also hope to reflect on past experiences.