Capturing sound in jewellery
- Dimitar forges his Bulgarian roots into unique objects
- He holds degrees in both Metal Design, Jewellery Design and Silversmithing
- He won a drawing competition aged 10 which set his heart on art
Relatively early on in his life Dimitar Stankov chose art to be his vocation. Prompted by his mother – a fashion designer – he loved watching her work and drawing sketches for her new models. An exemplary art student in highly respected national and international educational institutions, he received a BA in Metal Design from the National Art Academy, Sofia, followed by a BA and a MA diploma in Jewellery Design and Silversmithing from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Antwerp. Dimitar’s pieces evoke associations with rare and stylish eccentric small sculptures. These are the outcome of a rigorous dedication, meticulous work and extensive research process. An important element of his craft is the Bulgarian cultural heritage which he draws inspiration from, he makes beautiful and imaginative associations between folklore and contemporaneity.
INTERVIEW
I wanted to materialise sound and bring memories of my motherland and family with me. My focus was on visualising the sound of the Bulgarian bagpipe – Kaba gaida. I created 3-D objects and jewellery which keeps and represents personal sound memories and at the same time can be attached to the body or just be held in the hand.
In building 3-D constructions from very thin silver and gold wire, I have mostly been experimenting with electroforming and how to combine it with innovative techniques. I also make pieces with precious and semi-precious stones on customers' demand.
Even the most ingenious master is nothing without his tools. I love all my tools and I take good care of them. My favorite tool is a little wooden hammer which I bought second hand. Its previous owner was a chocolatier who used to break chocolate into small pieces with it. Now I use it to make my art works.
I would love to keep all of my pieces just for me, but unfortunately that is not possible. Nevertheless I have one brooch from my MA project "Bagpipes & Memories" that is very close to my heart and I kept it so I can wear it whenever I want.
