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.

More « Shining DESPAIR »

Shining Despair – Lena Lindahl / Sweden

Half of the world’s coral reefs have vanished since 1950.

Shining Despair – Anna Timar / Hungary

These necklaces represent the duality of emotions within us.

Shining Despair – Deimezi Xenia / Greece

Behind and in front of what is visible.

Shining Despair – Ute van der Plaats / Belgium

When the relentless madness of this world is clouding my heart, I take a walk in the woods …

Shining Despair – Jina Seo / USA-South Korea

My work reveals inner conflict and suffering by contrasting societal expectations with the personal turmoil I often experience.

Shining Despair – Misha McLean / Scotland

‘Repeat Prescription: 14mg’ embodies the quiet despair felt by those who rely on medication in order to sustain a healthy life.

Shining Despair – Youjin Um / South Korea

My No. 1 treasure is my happy childhood memory.

Shining Despair – Anna Talbot / Norway

The series ‘Pressed Flowers’ is inspired by my memories of my grandfather’s garden from my childhood.

Shining Despair – Jeannette Knigge / Netherlands

Looking at the world from behind your curtains, untouchable yet vulnerable.

Shining Despair – Katherine Mc Namara / Ireland

I have been saving the plastic packaging of my cigarette filters for several years.