The annual PlatAfrica Awards took place last month and CPUT student Jana Basson took first place in the Student \/ Apprentice category with her stunning multipurpose Unity neckpiece \/ bracelet. We asked her a few questions to gain insight on the inspiration of her winning piece, and noted a few of them below:<\/p>\n

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Can you describe the piece of jewellery you created? What was your inspiration and thought process behind it?<\/strong><\/span>
\nThe platinum piece I made is a moveable pendant that can transform into a bracelet to flow around the wearer\u2019s wrist. The concept originated when I noticed chairs stacked on top of each other. While the flowing organic shapes appeared to build up a sense of movement from all angles but still united to create a sense of togetherness and diversity. That\u2019s why I designed an experimental piece that can be worn comfortably as a pendant or bracelet.<\/p>\n

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Can you share the story behind the design, and any symbolism or cultural significance associated with it, if applicable?<\/strong><\/span>
\nMany Gen-Z and Millennials feel like they\u2019ve been stringed along through life, not knowing what will happen in the future. My one-of-a-kind statement platinum piece symbolises this as everything is \u201cstringed together\u201d like code forming a flowing sequence. These generations need to adapt and be flexible, just like my platinum bracelet has a sense of flexibility within its structure. This piece lets people express their individuality, through the pieces that look different individually through shape, size, and texture. Each piece has a different set of behaviours similar to how people have different experiences. Millennials created a sharing economy, and my piece symbolises this with the different levels like how generations build on previous generations to accomplish more.<\/p>\n

What techniques and materials did you use to create your winning piece, and what makes platinum a unique and challenging material to work with?<\/strong><\/span>
\nPlatinum is a unique and challenging material because of its durability. It takes long to clean and polish, however it can go really thin and still be durable. This allowed me to make a larger more durable piece. The finished polish is also really nice.<\/p>\n

How can placing in the PlatAfrica Awards impact your career and your future as a jewellery designer?<\/strong><\/span>
\nIt shows I have potential. It could possibly lead to better job opportunities. Designing for a competition is like designing for a client. They have specific requests and needs, and you won\u2019t achieve anything unless you can meet these needs. After graduating university, I might get hired by a place that would like me to compete again.<\/p>\n

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