Christopher Heltzel

Goldsmith

©Rudolf Heltzel

An icon of Irish craftmanship

Christopher learned his skills from his father
Traditional skills are core to his work
His precious metals are ethically sourced

Christopher Heltzel creates stunning wearable sculptures. He uses one of a kind gem stones that have whole worlds sparkling inside them. To wear a piece of Heltzel jewellery is to wear a piece of history. He has a respect for traditions and techniques that have been unchanged for centuries without being limited or constrained by the past. He learned his trade under the guidance of his father Rudolf Heltzel, whom was influential in the careers of many young Irish goldsmiths. Rudolf was invited to Ireland in 1966 by the Irish Export Board to up the gold and silver facilities at the Kilkenny Design Workshops. In 1968, Rudolf opened a studio in Kilkenny where Christopher Heltzel works today.

Interview

©Rudolf Heltzel

©Rudolf Heltzel

How do you feel cultural identity affects your work?: Craft is an intrinsic part of cultural heritage and identity. National cultural identities always spring from individual artistic endeavours. These are influenced by the cultural climate at a given time and historical background; it is a relationship.
What do you love most about your profession?: Knowing that I am a link in an unbroken chain of craftspeople; bringing my own creativity to this craft. I am fortunate that people respond positively to my work. It spurs me on to experiment with new directions, dares me to tread upon untrodden ground.
How do you come up with your ideas?: For me designing is a mental exercise. I set myself a theme, an abstract idea. It could be a circle, a colour, a certain cut of stone, an abandoned technique, a fleeting impression in a window. Initial ideas ripen, are mulled over, developed, put on paper.
Why do you make pieces that are technically complex?: I enjoy the challenge, both intellectually and in the forming process. My designs are different to conventional jewellery designs. I want to use difficult techniques, explore new methods, use rare and beautiful stones, and use the best of materials.

Christopher Heltzel is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2002 and he started teaching in 2021