The pebble, the flower and a long line of beads
- Catherine's jewellery pieces celebrate human history and natural phenomena
- Her jewellery is designed to reveal the rich qualities of the Earth's materials
- She has been making jewellery since the late 1980s
For jewellery maker Catherine Rochtus, the foundation of her practice is a fascination for all kinds of objects that carry a history with them. Stones, pearls, shells and even pieces of wood speak of tales past. “I am incredibly grateful that such precious materials, gifted to us by the earth, pass through my hands, which is why I treat them with great care and respect,” she says. “I love giving them added value by incorporating them into contemporary jewellery. This way, they enter into dialogue with the present,” explains Catherine. Her work holds a certain poetic sensibility, her pieces often seeming simple, though their making is rich in expertise. “I stimulate a connection between different materials, which generates a form of energy,” she says.
Interview
- Where do you continue to find inspiration?
- I believe that creative people have a sixth sense. We consciously or unconsciously absorb impressions throughout the day, and at the right time, these spontaneously manifest themselves in the creative process.
- Has there been a particular milestone in your professional life?
- The acquisition of one of my creations by the DIVA Museum for Jewellery, Silver and Diamonds in Antwerp has been a highlight in my career so far. My brooch called Aki No Eda, which incorporates exceptionally detailed ash tree seeds, is part of the museum’s collection.
- Could your craft be considered in danger?
- Like every craft, in a way it is. Time pressure plays an important role, and so do changes in training programmes and teachers' backgrounds. But talent and interest will always be there. New generations will seek out other opportunities and explore new avenues, just as my generation did.
- How important is your workspace to you?
- It is very important to me to be able to work in peace and quiet, in a tidy and open studio. When I look out of the window, I can admire the beautiful Kanaal site of art collector Axel Vervoordt. The banks of the canal are where I am surrounded by art and enthusiastic visitors from all over the world.
Catherine Rochtus is a master artisan: she began her career in 1987 and she started teaching in 2004
Works
Where
Catherine Rochtus
