Eternal Grace
Preserve Grandma's elegance for all time.
Original
Object
Before reform:
Cufflink
In the year 2019, Granny departed, leaving behind memories of a united trinity with Grandpa and myself. She had a special habit of carefully storing her treasures in a needlework box, where precious items were kept. Among them were beautiful cufflinks, rings adorned with gemstones, earrings, and a collection of her film photographs captured by Grandpa. Granny had an undeniable appreciation for beauty, and she adorned herself with jewellery that brought her sheer delight. I remember inviting them for a home photoshoot, and to my surprise, she swiftly changed her attire, determined to leave behind a graceful silhouette in the captured memories with Grandpa.
Listening to Granny's tales about the items was always a cherished experience. Her unique mantra of "If you fancy something, take it" resonated with those who understood her way of cherishing and appreciating life's treasures.
However, as time passed and age caught up with her, life became more challenging. The frequency of her wearing her beloved adornments gradually diminished. And when she departed, all her cherished possessions were carefully sealed and locked away in a secure safe, concealing her treasures from the world.
Her loss initially left me adrift, unsure how to navigate through Grandpa's grief and her absence. But with the gentle touch of time and the healing arc it brings, our wounds slowly began to mend. We learned to reminisce, embracing the memories of Granny with love and understanding.
The cufflinks she once cherished now symbolise her love for grace, transforming into vessels that hold the essence of her presence. They preserve her elegance and capture the untold stories that she carried with her. As her tale lives on, incomplete but not forgotten, I am determined to carry it forward with love and reverence, ensuring her legacy endures.
Story
Art Work
After Reform:
Brooch
Tam Ying Angelina 譚 瑩
Eternal Grace, 2023
Brooch
Size variable
Casted Silver, Casted Brass
Design
The owner unintentionally expressed her remembrance and love for her Granny in every aspect of her life, as if in love-filled letters. Inspired by this, the designer incorporated a lacquer seal, commonly used for sealing letters, into a brooch. The seal covered the pattern of buttons on the lacquer, symbolically sealing every precious moment between the Granny and Granddaughter, preserving their deep familial love for eternity.
To create the three-dimensional pattern on the metal button's surface, the designer used sterling silver and employed stamping and wax carving techniques, mimicking the appearance of a fire-lacquer seal. During the casting process, various fresh flowers were used, and suitable parts were selected. Floral arranging techniques were utilised to faithfully recreate the shape of a bouquet. These parts were meticulously welded onto the brooch holder, ensuring that the button remained securely fixed in the centre.
As Granny had a fondness for white orchids, a fine needle was welded to one of the flower stems. This allows the owner, who is engaged in art, to insert her own clay white orchids or fresh white orchids at any time. When the fragrance of the flowers wafts in the wind, memories are stirred, and it feels as if a gentle breeze embraces the owner, nurturing her longing.
RE: move on from the past.
We move on to the future.