Interview with Valentina Kalaydjian

This is the story of how an emotion became an illustration and then an amulet. How Valentina Kalaydjian's delicacy materialized in one of Joidart 's jewels, and how the Mediterranean Sea and the Tramuntana wind brought them to us.

N.: Could you briefly define yourself?
VK: Curious, sensitive and very emotional. I think I am an impulsive and happy person, in love with Cap de Creus and currently discovering the Alt Pirineu.

N.: As a multidisciplinary artist, when did you find the connection with the world of jewelry?
VK: I worked for a few years at Joidart as a graphic designer and then as a social media manager. During that time I learned a lot about the creative processes in the world of jewelry alongside Cristina Julià, the company's creative director. At her side, little by little I participated more and more in brainstorming sessions, shoots and ultimately, I became part of a world in which art and design become a unique and special piece, a jewel. Summer was approaching and one day Cristina suggested that I capture some of my illustrations in a collection concept, with earrings, rings, bracelets and pendants. I had never before collaborated on any Joidart jewelry collection in its creative process and this was my first experience, the link between my illustrations and a collection of real, tangible jewelry.

N.: Where does the idea for the Portlligat collection come from?
VK: The pieces in the Portlligat collection were born from the concept of an old stamp. We were inspired by how letters were sealed in the past, with delicacy and beauty. Those precious details, that experience of burning a little wax to capture some initials. With the illustrations that I always draw, very fine and minimalist, we began to create the illustrated concept for the jewellery. I realised that olive trees are very important to me, since in Portlligat, the coves of Cap de Creus, are always accompanied by these trees that fascinate me so much: for their special greyish green and for their strength and commitment to the Tramuntana wind.

N.: Tell us more about the design process of this collection. (Briefly from design to final product).
VK: From the illustrations of the olive branches, we synthesized until we were left with the graphic fragment that best suited us to adapt the leaves to our “stamp”. The artisans of the workshop, at Joidart , adapted the digitalized drawings in wax to create the molds where the materials are melted to make way for the creation of the jewel physically, with shape, solidity and later the corresponding gold plating is applied to the pieces.

N.: How did it feel to be designing a product?
VK: Well, the truth is that I was dying of excitement, every time I saw new samples, they seemed wonderful to me. I have to tell you that I didn't wait to wear the final pieces of jewellery that went on sale, but I kept some initial prototypes - I was so happy to be able to wear them NOW! - I had never designed anything that could be worn before, my work is usually looked at or seen online. I imagine that the same thing happens to you, as soon as you can put on your sandals, walk around in your designs... it must be very exciting.

N.: What is it like to design a piece that will most likely end up becoming a “lucky charm” for some woman?
VK: One of my friends, Clara, always wears the little pendant, the one with the medallion. And the truth is that it still surprises me when we see each other and I look at the Olive Tree and remember all the tests and drawings prior to its final design. I feel special in some ways, lucky to have had this opportunity and creative experience alongside very powerful and hard-working women; together, with the Joidart team, we shaped some very special pieces for me. The Portlligat collection is more than a set of ornamental pieces, it represents the love I feel for the town of Cadaqués and the memories lived in each season of the year, there, in one of my favorite places in this world. Gratitude.