“I am fascinated by antiques, and time and time again I use them in my latest collections. This time I have used old watch faces and buttons,” says Danuta Czapnik. What fascinated her most about the old dials are the signs of time: the raised elements are partly worn away, which “changes the perspective from which we look at them”. Upon closer observation, we can see that they bear brand names: Ruhla or Vostok, which makes them even more interesting and richer in history. Apparently, among them there are even dials dating back to the 19th century!
Another object of the designer's interest is buttons, which she wishes to exhibit more prominently in order to save their history from oblivion. The latest collection makes use of buttons from military uniforms, including those of the Piłsudski followers and the Napoleonic army, as well as from historical women's garments. The exhibition is complemented by paintings, to which Danuta Czapnik has returned after a break.
Danuta Czapnik she is a painter by training, having studied in the studio of Kazimierz Ostrowski and Prof. Stefan Gierowski. She began making jewellery in 1984 together with her husband – their initial designs were based on simple, geometric forms. For a long time, the main material she has used in her goldsmithing work is amber set in silver, combined with other natural or synthetic stones. She creates collections of various characters: ascetic, graphic forms of satin-finished sheet metal with geometric blocks of amber, as well as colourful ones combining various stones and materials. She also engages in drawing and painting. Her works can be found in many galleries around the world.
Glaza Expo Design, 20/21 Długi Targ st., opening exhibition: 9 September at 7 pm. A companion event to the Ambermart amber fair (8-10 September).
Recommended:
Danka Czapnik: In search of the roots of jewellery
I design what I like myself – an interview with Danuta Czapnik
Danuta Czapnik: Amber, crystals and... peacock feathers
Creativity is a balancing act – a conversation with Danuta Czapnik