Réka Lőrincz

Jewellery maker

©Géza Talabár

Benedek Regős©Museum of Applied Arts Budapest

Building bridges between generations

Réka's objects blur the lines between fine arts and applied arts
Pearls are recurring elements in her work
She strives for wholeness when creating

Having finished her studies in Product Design at the Hungarian University of Applied Arts (MOME), Réka Lőrincz enrolled for Mental Health and Organization Development at Semmelweis University. The decision was based on her conviction that jewellery connects the body, soul and spirit. In the process of examining how her different emotional states translate into physical realities, she is more interested in the concept, rather than in what shape the objects take. When designing jewellery, objects and installations, she seeks to experience a sense of freedom. She is represented by prestigious galleries in Stockholm, Seoul, Munich and New York, and has shown her work in numerous group and solo exhibitions worldwide. She received the Lajos Kozma Applied Arts Scholarship in 2006 and 2008.

Where

Interview

Benedek Regős©Museum of Applied Arts Budapest

Benedek Regős©Museum of Applied Arts Budapest

Why did you pick this craft?: I originally wanted to apply for the Hungarian University of Fine Arts, but its admission process clashed with that of the Hungarian University of Applied Arts (MOME). My portfolio was more relevant for an applied arts training, so I eventually opted for that.
Do you remember the first work you made?: One of my more notable works I remember was a drawing of my mother. I think it turned out to be rather good. Not everyone may recognize her though; in fact, only I knew it was her, but this is what burned into my memory.
How are tradition and innovation presented in your work?: I often work with pearls, which are classic components in jewellery making, and I also use antique jewellery. I find it crucial to build bridges between different generations and to have as many age groups as possible connected to my objects.
How would you define a “well made” object?: I used to be determined to create perfect objects, but it blocked me and I couldn’t move forward. In the pursuit of perfection, one is afraid of making mistakes. Instead, I started to look for the path to the wholeness of the object. It may be flawed, even on purpose, as you can learn from it.

Réka Lőrincz is a master artisan: she began her career in 1998 and she started teaching in 2012