A theatrical approach
- Katerina's colourful jewellery designs reflect her personality
- She believes in the demand for unique handmade jewellery
- Her parents taught her the craft of jewellery making
Katerina Makriyianni grew up in a family where art was part of the daily routine. After studying theatre at the University of Patras and taking engraving and drawing classes in Florence, at Le Arti Orafe Jewellery school, Makriyianni returned to Chania, her hometown. Their family workshop was the place where she started practicing her craft, with the guidance of her parents. Through her work, she combines her love for theatre and the creative freedom it provides with her passion for crafting jewellery. “I love working in a workshop and especially with teams. Teamwork and creativity are a source of strength for me. That is why pursuing this career was the perfect combination,” Makriyianni says.
INTERVIEW
When I graduated from university I realised that I wanted to combine the art of theatre with that of jewellery; I loved these two arts equally since I was a child. I knew I had a huge opportunity through my parents' workshop and shop to make my dreams come true. I returned to Chania and entered the workshop immediately.
I use a wide range of materials when designing my jewellery which means I have to use many different techniques to create a piece of jewellery. For example, when I started experimenting with fabrics I needed to learn as much as I could about weaving, embroidery, sewing; then I had to combine them with silversmithing techniques.
Designing and making jewellery is an entirely solitary job. The artist spends many hours designing and many more to create. And this is something that never stops, nor does it ever change.
The photo session by Vogue UK with Mario Testino of my fan earrings, our most characteristic design. For me, this was the moment when I thought that my name began to be imprinted in peoples’ minds as a Greek jewellery designer and for this reason I will never forget it.
