Kanaé Briandet

Jewellery maker

©Marion Saupin

A masterclass in colour, volume and embroidery

Kanaé started her journey in craft by realising her dream of training in jewellery making in Paris
The silk cocoons she uses in her embroidery come from a UNESCO listed spinning mill in Japan
She supports natural conservation and traditional craftsmanship through her art

Kanaé Briandet creates intricate and unique jewellery and textile sculptures. Working with silk cocoons, glass beads, and semi-precious stones, she juxtaposes natural materials with brightly-coloured elements. A native of Japan, Kanaé has been living in France since 2000. She embroiders and assembles each of her pieces by hand in her atelier near Paris, with a focus on heritage Japanese techniques such as kumihimo braiding and textile dyeing. "My creations are vibrant, poetic and inspired by nature," she says. Through her work, Kanaé advocates for environmental preservation, using forgotten materials, and craft techniques of the past, to revive ancestral artistry and inspire future generations.

Interview

©Marion Saupin

©Marion Saupin

How did you start creating jewellery?: The turning point was when I got involved in jewellery design during my training, which led me to attend school to learn more seriously. At the same time, I was able to find a job in accessory design.
Are your sculptures an extension of your jewellery making?: Yes, they resonate with each other. I design jewellery that can be integrated into framed art, creating a synergy between the two artforms, while contributing to the revitalising of textile craft heritage from my country.
What tools or machinery do you use?: To create various loops and curves in my embroidery, I use a thread nipper, round-nose pliers, flat-nose pliers, chain-nose pliers, and a pin vise as well as various sizes of needles and thread.
What are you influenced by the most?: My inspiration comes from the natural light of life, plant shapes, ocean movements, our planet's colours, as well as the five senses. My materials come from nature as well. I embrace an Eastern approach to life, which revolves around a deep connection to nature and its contemplation.

Kanaé Briandet is an expert artisan she began her career in 2015