Visual Art Depeartment - Student Gallery

Justin C

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2025|Advanced Design|Jewelry Design

Title
Cultural Artifacts
Size
7x12
Medium
Rhino + twinmotion
Jade
Jade
Sakura
Sakura
Dim sum #2
Dim sum
Modular Design
Taiwanese Iron Cage Pattern #1
Taiwanese Iron Cage Pattern #2

Artist Statement

My inspiration for jewelry design comes from my unique cultural background being both Taiwanese and from Hong Kong. Growing up with influences from both places has given me a rich source of memories, traditions, and aesthetics to draw from, and I try to reflect that blend in each of my pieces. One of the first designs I created was inspired by modular couples' rings. These rings fit together, with one piece slotting into the other. I found this concept very poetic and symbolic. To me, it represents how my two cultures, though distinct, come together in harmony. Just like the rings, they may be different in shape and design, but when placed together, they form something complete and meaningful. For my second design, I looked to my childhood memories of food specifically dim sum. I created pieces inspired by shrimp dumplings, fried dumplings, and egg tarts. These were staple dishes I enjoyed with my family, and transforming them into wearable pieces of art was a way for me to celebrate those joyful, shared experiences. My third design took inspiration from iron window art found throughout the urban landscape of Taipei. These decorative window patterns caught my eye after moving from Hong Kong to Taiwan. They symbolize my transition and exposure to a different style of architecture and design. It was a way to reflect my personal journey and adaptation to a new environment. My fourth design was deeply sentimental, inspired by the sakura tree my grandparents put up every Chinese New Year. This tree was a centerpiece during family gatherings, and I have vivid memories of helping my mom remove the green leaves from its branches. It represents family unity, tradition, and the warmth of those celebrations. Finally, my fifth design was inspired by Taiwanese blue jade. As a child, I often walked through the streets of Taiwan with my mom, gazing at jewelry shop displays. These walks left a lasting impression, and through this design, I wanted to capture those nostalgic moments and evoke the feeling of wonder I had as a child.