Small Talk ANNA HU
The New York-based Taiwanese jewellery designer, known for her bold, show-stopping designs created with countless gemstones, discusses her sources of inspiration
You have a relationship with the Louvre going back at least a decade. What was your introduction to the museum and how have you collaborated with them over time?
I presented my first global exhibition at the Louvre’s Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris back in 2012 to celebrate the launch of my first book: Symphony of Jewels, Opus 1. Over the past decade, I’ve maintained a great relationship with Musée des Arts Décoratifs and its director, Olivier Gabet.
Where do you look for inspiration for each new collection? Are there any people, places or artworks that have had a lasting effect on your work?
So many things inspire me from daily life: art, nature, literature, culture. Although I have lived abroad for most of my life, I’m proud of my heritage and have always been drawn to integrate it into my jewellery creations.
For example, renowned Chinese painting master Zhang Daqian and his series of lotus masterpieces inspired me to study photographs of lotus blossoms in various stages of growth and decay, hundreds of Master Zhang’s lotus Chinese paintings, and real specimens to create Celestial Lotus Rings.
I aim to blend eastern and western elements in a sophisticated way. This seamless integration of Chinese design motifs and classic French craftsmanship makes my pieces unique.
How does your background as a musical prodigy and lover of classical music inform your jewellery design?
I was devoted to playing cello every day by an early age, and had a passion to become the best solo cellist. Unfortunately, due to a shoulder injury at the age of 20, I could not fulfil this dream. I overcame this difficult time by transforming my passion for expressing art through music into expressions of jewellery design.
I’ve always loved classical music as it not only heals my emotions but also inspires me when I design. Nearly every piece of my creations can be associated with a piece of music or an artwork. I use gemstones as my musical notes to create beautiful jewellery symphonies.