GLOBAL YOUNG TALENT 2021: QIMIN CHEN | ADVOCATING FOR EVERYDAY JEWELLERY EXTRAVAGANZA

Central Saint Martins graduate, Qimin Chen, has a sharp futuristic eye for technical jewellery design. Her recent collection, “Meteorite and Nebula”, being inspired by the universe showcased her advanced skill set along with adding her own unique design style. By using a hollowed-out metallic material that resembles a meteorite, her designs are deceptively light and comfortable to wear. Read further to learn more about Qimin’s design processes, as featured in the April issue of Harper's Bazaar under our Global Young Talent.

Tell us a bit about yourself, you’re originally from China, yet moved to The United Kingdom to complete a course in jewellery design at the prestigious Central Saint Martins, what inspired you to move overseas and study jewellery design?

I used to saw a lot of fabulous jewellery works of many western country artists in books and magazine when I was in China, from then on I had been thinking about studying jewellery design oversea to broaden my view of the horizon.

Your collection combines your love for both innovative metallic technologies with geometric elements, how is this shaped in your collection?

All the pieces in my collection are made of hollowed metallic material which is formed by innovative casting and electric deposition technics, the frame I choose to settle these materials in are all design in the most simple square and round shape to make the texture and volume of the pieces speak more.

"The texture of hollowed aluminium firstly inspired me, it reminds me of the texture of meteorite, the vibe of futurism and vintage style also stimulate my desire to make the design more about the elements in the universe."

Your work is inspired by the sky, in particular stars and planets, what lead to this source of inspiration?

The texture of hollowed aluminium firstly inspired me, it reminds me of the texture of meteorite, the vibe of futurism and vintage style also stimulate my desire to make the design more about the elements in the universe.

“ My favourite item piece is the pair of aluminium and silver made earrings with amethyst.”

Which is your favourite piece from your collection and why?

My favourite item piece is the pair of aluminium and silver made earrings with amethyst, the colour combination is gorgeous and the style is quite vintage in terms of the way they combined together.

What have you learnt during your time at university and what tips do you have for future jewellery design students?

To explore first, and then narrow the targets, dare to think other people dare not to think when you need a concept to start, but be the most cautious one when it comes to real commercial products.

Discover Qimin Chen's full collection

Words by Lupe Baeyens