Kathrin Heinicke

Gems with the backing of history

• Kathrin aims to create lasting objects
• There is a historical background behind every piece
• The design of her pieces is the most important thing to her

Kathrin Heinicke lives and works in Hamburg, but her work is inextricably linked to the North of Germany. Born in Sylt, she translates Nordic restraint, the play of lines and the landscape of the dunes shaped by wind and water, into her jewellery pieces. The architecture of bridges and the North are two of her main inspirations. The North is reflected in the restrained forms of vessels and jewellery, in the blues and greens of cold water. From an early age, Kathrin knew she wanted to work in the arts. She chose goldsmithing, with the support of her family, and has never been disappointed. Since the mid-1980s, she has been creating jewellery and vessels in her studio, addressing themes such as natural phenomena, the impact of time on landscapes and historical events.

Interview

©Kathrin Heinicke

©Kathrin Heinicke

How did you become interested in this craft?

Since childhood, I have always loved doing things with my hands, and I often made things with my mother. It was clear at school that I wanted to do something related to arts and crafts. At first, I wanted to study graphic design but I soon realised that I wanted to make things that would last a long time, and my art teacher suggested goldsmithing. The advice was excellent, I started learning goldsmithing in Hamburg and liked it immediately.

What exactly do you like about this craft?

The fact that I can create something that has a distinctive shape out of material. I also have a design background; I studied metal design in Hildesheim with Professor Bünck. What fascinates me is that I can create something completely new and imbued with my identity. I can put all my experiences and memories into my work.

What is the relationship between tradition and innovation in your view?

I am always interested in history and processes. I am curious about where our identities come from. I try to find an aspect of history that particularly excites me and build on it. As far as tradition is concerned, it is the basis for the design of my work and technical craft. When I create a piece, I always ensure it is technically well done.

What are your artistic values?

The most important thing for me is design. For me, the production process is also part of the design. Conceptually, my work has to have a background. I work mainly with architectonics and Nordic inspirations. If a ring reflects bridge structures, I think that is innovative and unlike classical goldsmithing.

Kathrin Heinicke is a master artisan: she began her career in 1985 and she started teaching in 1993

Works

©Barbara_Eismann

©Barbara_Eismann

©Barbara_Eismann

©Barbara_Eismann

©Barbara_Eismann

Where