Ganna Slizkova

MA Jewellery

Theme

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.. I am nothing but a little weed by the road, being torn apart by cold and deadly winds. All I can do is try my best to hold on and hope my dried seed will bring something out when the sun finally comes..

Since I started my degree, there has not been any other topic on my mind but – the War in Ukraine.

When looking at this research one should understand the context – Ukrainians have been oppressed by Russians for centuries. Every family, including my family line, has that dark heritage of survival that is being passed down by generations.
Like family jewels, to be styled in a new manner, to fit the new horrifying occasion.

Each piece of this collection highlights a different aspect of the war in Ukraine: genocide, cultural eradication, displacement, loss of peace.

Ukrainian heritage in War

'Heart Roots' piece visualizes how I feel as a refugee. It is as if the roots grow directly from the heart, trying to find new soil but failing. Get used to live without a home, little plant.. Materials: Copper, piano wire, living root

A piece of XX century traditional Ukrainian textile cast in metal. The process of burnout destroys the precious piece but turns it into a protective talisman. Materials: Sterling silver cast from textile

'Collar' piece visualizes how Ukrainian heritage can be used to restrain and subdue. A two-part mold was taken off the neckline of a XX century traditional Ukrainian shirt to turn it into a slave collar. Materials: Copper, silver, patina

'Handcuffs' are two part molds taken off a XX century traditional Ukrainian shirt's sleeves, and positioned in a way to turn into handcuffs/shackles. They are heavy and uncomfortable to wear and remind us of a heavy heritage of constant genocide. Materials: Copper, silver, patina

The 'Burnt Wheat' piece is a commentary on the burnt fields left behind by Russia, be it hundred years ago or now. To be worn as a pin. Materials: Patinated sterling silver piece cast from an actual wheat

Crafts

Ashley Earls | Crafts Yulu Wang | Crafts