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Dialogue

Shangyu Wu

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I am a materials-driven jewellery designer focusing on the exploration of diverse natural and synthetic materials. My practice is rooted in hands-on experimentation, where I study the textures, structures, and possibilities of each material through continuous making and testing. I am interested in how materials can guide form and expression, allowing each piece to grow organically from the making process.

I am a materials-driven jewellery designer focusing on the exploration of diverse natural and syn...

Body + Rattan + Silver — three entities that are distinct, resonating with each other. 

“Dialogue” brings these materials together, where each contributes its unique qualities, to form an intricate conversation.  

In a time, shaped by contrasts and conflict, these works envision coexistence — not through dominance, rather through mutual tension and care.  

Exploring softness and rigidity, organic materials and industrial supports results in a jewellery collection featuring large collar pieces through to simple and bold brooch forms. 

Construction blends craft and intuition. Rattan is formed then soaked, then dried, combined with silver structures, to allow flexibility and rigidity to interact.

Final work

  • A model wears a black rattan chest ornament. The piece has a fluid, curved design that wraps smoothly around the shoulder and neck.
  • A model wears a black rattan chest ornament. The piece has a fluid, curved design that wraps smoothly around the shoulder and neck.
  • A model wears a black rattan chest ornament. The piece has a fluid, curved design that wraps smoothly around the shoulder and neck.
  • The brooch features rattan and silver tubes. The rattan pierces through the silver tubes and wraps around them, forming a smooth, flowing design aroun
  • The brooch features rattan and silver tubes. The rattan pierces through the silver tubes and wraps around them, forming a smooth, flowing design aroun
  • The long brooch features several evenly arranged rattan strips combined with a circular silver plate. The design highlights a clean, structured look w
  • The long brooch features several evenly arranged rattan strips combined with a circular silver plate. The design highlights a clean, structured look w

Research and process

  • The dyeing process of the rattan involves soaking, boiling, water cleansing, and drying to complete the coloration.
  • The dyeing process of the rattan involves soaking, boiling, water cleansing, and drying to complete the coloration.
  • The dyeing process of the rattan involves soaking, boiling, water cleansing, and drying to complete the coloration.

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Dialogue

Body + Rattan + Silver — three entities that are distinct, resonating with each other. “Dialogue” brings these materials together, where each contributes its unique qualities, to form an intricate conversa...

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