The fragility of existence
- Åsa's pieces are in major Scandinavian public collections
- Her workshop is a large converted factory beside a lake
- Her work is influenced by the frail character of existence
For Åsa Lockner, the journey to jewellery mastery started at a school where she studied music. Åsa was fascinated by the forging workshop and this intrigue came to define her future. Today, the artisan is a well-respected jewellery master in Scandinavia and beyond with a few decades of experience and many fantastic works of art completed. Her objects have links to historic jewellery yet are very forward-looking, created using distinct and innovative techniques. “I feel compelled to make work that lasts but am reassured by the knowledge that everything unavoidably breaks down in time,” says Åsa describing the nature of her captivating jewellery pieces that are perfect in their imperfection. The majority of her work is universal, jewellery that can be worn or be interpreted as an art piece.
Interview
- Did you learn jewellery art from a master?
- My teachers at Stockholm’s Konstfack where I graduated in 1999 were all masters in their own respect but I would say that my work experience under Kasia Gaspaskis was the most rewarding in that regard. It opened my eyes in terms of being specific and focused in my work.
- Do you have a specific creative process?
- I have created a special method of working on the thin silver sheet using a small steel ball in a process not unlike doodling. This manner of working gives the silver strength, volume and decoration and allows me to create shape by applying pattern in the same way I’d seen used by the metalsmiths of Laos where I worked for some time.
- What is a memorable moment in your career?
- Travelling across the world. My time in Laos working on an aid project was such an interesting and rewarding experience. My relationship to the concept of ideas and the value of innovation was diametrically opposite to theirs. Working with the Royal Goldsmiths in Ghana was also an amazing experience.
- What do you love most about your profession?
- The constant delight in experiencing what can be done. How materials can work together with your expectations to inform your visual understanding: that is pure joy. It’s like reading a book that constantly surprises you, you just have to keep going.
Åsa Lockner is a master artisan: she began her career in 1999 and she started teaching in 2000
Where
Åsa Lockner
