Shining DESPAIR
Minami Hiranuma
Japan

Necklace “Bone chain”, 2024
Stainless mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, enamel, wax cord, length 1630mm
Vitreous enamel on metal mesh
Photo : Yosuke Otomo

The motif of this work is my feelings when I picked up my grandmother’s bones.

In Japan, due to the influence of Buddhism, most people are cremated and the remaining bones are placed in an urn. This is because cremation is thought to free the soul that was residing in the body.

I lost my grandmother last year. As my various feelings for my grandmother grew, the cremation was carried out and I picked up the bones. At that time, I felt my emotions gradually being released. I realized that the bones were just material and that my grandmother was no longer here, but at the same time I was also convinced that she was still within me. And I felt hope in the midst of despair that I also had this white, light piece.

For this piece, pieces inspired by bones were joined together to create a piece of jewelry. A thin metal mesh was used for the base, which gives it a lightness. On top of the mesh, I applied a portion of cloisonne glaze. I also dared to create unglazed areas and incorporated the expression of oxidized metal. The natural decay process of metal is an important element of the work, representing the cycle of life and death, despair and hope, and the hearts of those left behind.

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