Michael Hofmeyer

MHGOLD

Jewellery maker

Jewellery with a cause

Michael combines traditional Italian goldsmithing with his own artistic vision
Environmental concerns inspire many of his designs
His work steps into the realm of wearable art

Michael Hofmeyer is an Australian jewellery maker currently living and working in Padova. He completed an apprenticeship in Australia, followed by a period studying classical goldsmithing in Florence. In 1996, he established an independent workshop, MHGOLD, that he ran for 18 years. Although he lives in Italy, Michael does not settle for a conventional, commercial take on jewellery. His work features a mix of diverse materials and techniques: in addition to using a variety of goldsmithing techniques including repoussé and chasing for fine detailing and texturing, he recently started working with enamel as well. His work is largely inspired by nature and particularly by the special bond he has with the landscapes and environmental concerns of his home country, Australia.

Interview

How would you define the Australian jewellery making scene?: Australia in general is freer from convention. People look for unique pieces with special designs and unusual materials. Artisans tend to have an experimental approach.
What would you say characterises your work?: I like to try out different materials and techniques, ranging from the traditional ones to the more experimental. In the last few years I have been experimenting with opaque and transparent vitreous enamels, combining enamelling with colour to convey a greater richness.
What inspires your work?: I am inspired by travels, and particularly by Japan for contemporary crafts. I also take inspiration from nature. In Australia there are ancient landscapes and unique natural environments. One of my projects, Fragility, is inspired by the Great Barrier Reef, that marvellous hidden world that is being destroyed by climate change.
Are you part of a community of jewellery makers?: I like to attend trade shows such as Sieraad, the International Jewellery Art Fair in Amsterdam, where jewellers can sell their work directly to consumers and galleries. I am also a member of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery, which represents Italian jewellery makers who share a design oriented approach.

Michael Hofmeyer is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1994