Katarina Henriksson

Jewellery maker | Skärhamn, Sweden

A silver lining

Katarina wants to explore how we value different species
She seeks inspiration in flowers and weeds
Her workshop is on the island Tjörn

Jewellery designer and silversmith Katarina Henriksson developed an interest in metal forging as a child, when she watched her father work with iron and copper at the lamp factory where he was a mechanic. Her first artistic interest, however, was painting. After graduating from the Academy of Art and Design in Gothenburg, where she explored various art forms including forging, painting and drawing, silversmithing became her passion and livelihood. Her studio is located in the coastal community Skärhamn, on the island Tjörn on the Swedish west coast. Although she seeks inspiration in nature, Katarina's work is not necessarily tied to the geographic location.

Interview

©Katarina Henriksson

Why do you reference leaves and flowers?: There’s a long-standing tradition in jewellery design to depict nature. When I was an art student, that was quite out of fashion. The trend was minimalist and technical and so was my work. Since then, I’ve returned to nature, finding my true self with age and experience.
How do you explore different species?: I find it fascinating that we don’t appreciate certain plants and flowers, like dandelions, despite the fact that they have very beautiful shapes. I want to explore the question of equal value in my work, but I’m more interested in asking questions than providing answers.
Why did you choose to work in silver?: It’s a very compliant material and easy to form into the desired shape. Iron, for example, is too solid and copper is too soft. Good design to me is something that both carries new ideas and evokes emotions, but that is also functional.
What advice would you give to an aspiring jewellery maker?: Get formal training. That does not necessarily mean that you need a degree, there are several ways to go. Start with short-term courses. The important thing is to give yourself time to explore, try different paths and avoid remaining within your comfort zone.

Katarina Henriksson is an expert artisan: she began her career in 1994