INTERVIEW WITH JOANNA CAVE

Born in London, Joanna grew up on a remote Aegean island where her family owned a jewelry store, housed in a traditional Cycladic building in the center of the island. From a young age, she became instinctively aware of the symbolic and decorative aspects of jewelry, while realizing the transformative effect it could have on the wearer. Influenced by the wild beauty and distinctive architecture of her traditional environment, Joanna developed a keen aesthetic sense, and her artistic flair led her to train in the fundamentals of jewelry at Central St Martin's in London and later have a degree in Jewelry and Design from Middlesex University.

Her sensitivity to the ethical and sustainable approach developed at the end of her studies, when she began to experiment by melting old silver coins in order to reuse them for the creation of her first collection. This recycling process made her aware of the ecological aspect of the activity and is now part of the ethics embodied in her work. Today, she uses recycled silver and gold, as well as ethically sourced pearls.

When and how did you start?

I loved jewelry from a very young age. I loved trying everything in my father's jewelry store. I started by making pearl necklaces.

What was your first success?

When I received my first order. It came from a really nice London jewelry store called ECone, right after I graduated.

How do you go about creating templates?

I start by drawing the models on paper, then I work on creating a metal prototype. Sometimes I do it over and over again until it's right.

How do you choose your materials?

It's instinct that guides me and I try what seems to go together.

What are your values?

My footprint should be as light as possible (on this earth), I have empathy for all living beings, I fight for what we believe in and remain impartial for important things.

What is your favorite style?

I have so many! But I really like the "Kate" earrings (editor's note: similar to the Montrey model on our site). They are simple and elegant, and the size is perfect.

What is your favorite place in Athens or the Mediterranean?

The rocks under my house on the island of Ios, they are magical.

What was it like entering the extremely refined Shop at the Benaki Museum? Tell us the story!

For me, the Benaki Museum Shop is one of the most beautiful museum shops I have visited in the entire world. It was created by Despoina Geroulanou, a legendary woman with undeniable taste. I love being part of this creative community of Greek designers. I had an exciting time when I started selling my products there.

What are your next projects ?

Surprise!... It's in preparation...!

 

Efcharisto!