In this article you can feel a bit like a spy into the captivating world of contemporary jewelry through the eyes of the talented artist, Mihaela Caravan, as she shares her remarkable experience at the prestigious Alchimia School of Contemporary Jewelry in Florence. Mihaela, the recipient of the esteemed ALCHIMIA Award at AUTOR FAIR 2022, takes us on a mesmerising journey through her two-week adventure. In her own words, she unveils the artistry, innovation, and inspiration that shaped her transformative time at this renowned institution an the teachers she met.
I recently had the privilege of attending an intensive course at Alchimia- School of Contemporary Jewelry in Firenze, and I must say, it was an absolutely enchanting experience. From the moment I stepped foot into this captivating school, I knew I was about to embark on a journey that would redefine my perspective on creativity.
First and foremost, the location of Alchimia is simply breathtaking. Tucked away in the heart of Firenze, this school exudes a charm that instantly captivates your senses. The historic surroundings combined with the artistic ambience create a perfect backdrop for unleashing one’s creative potential. It’s no wonder that so many renowned artists have found inspiration within these walls.
The positive and welcoming vibes at Alchimia are contagious. From passionate instructors to fellow students, everyone radiates a genuine enthusiasm for art and jewellery making. The atmosphere encourages collaboration, sharing ideas, and exploring new techniques, which fosters a sense of community among the participants.
One of the most impressive aspects of my experience at Alchimia was the unwavering support I received throughout the course. No idea was dismissed or brushed aside. Instead, every concept, no matter how unconventional, was treated with respect and consideration. This open-minded approach allowed me to push the boundaries of my creativity and embrace the endless possibilities that lie within the world of contemporary jewellery.
The practical advice and guidance provided by the instructors were invaluable. They possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise in their craft, and they are genuinely invested in helping their students succeed. Whether it was discussing design concepts, honing technical skills, or problem-solving during the fabrication process, the instructors were always there to offer insightful feedback and practical solutions.
I must also mention what a great teacher Daniela was during my time at Alchimia. She went above and beyond to ensure that every student’s project, goals, and ideas were thoroughly discussed. Her dedication and attention to detail were evident as she took the time to understand each student’s vision and provide personalized guidance. Daniela’s expertise in contemporary jewellery was exceptional, and she did a fantastic job of teaching us new techniques such as Metals Marriage, Keum-Boo, and Nunome Zogan but also sand casting and wax craving. Her passion for the craft shone through in her teachings, and she was always patient and supportive, allowing us to explore and experiment with these contemporary techniques.
Another aspect that made the course even more special was the small class size. With only four students at a time, the course became intense, fostering a close-knit learning environment. This intimate setting allowed for more one-on-one interactions with Daniela, and it also facilitated strong connections among the students. I found myself building friendships within our group and enjoying memorable late nights in the beautiful city of Florence, further enhancing the overall experience.
Daniela’s teaching style, combined with the small class size and the connections formed, added immense value to the course. Her guidance, expertise, and camaraderie within the group truly made my experience at Alchimia unforgettable.
By the end of the course, I found myself not only equipped with new skills and techniques but also with a renewed sense of self-expression. Alchimia has a unique ability to unlock the hidden potential within each individual and empower them to turn their creative visions into tangible works of art.
I cannot recommend Alchimia- School of Contemporary Jewelry enough to anyone seeking to explore their creative side. The beautiful location, the creative and positive vibes, and the unwavering support from the instructors create an environment where artistic dreams are transformed into reality. It’s an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your creative journey, and I am incredibly grateful to have been a part of it and a big thank you to AUTOR 2022 and Lucia Massei for giving me the Alchimia Award.
Thank you, Alchimia and AUTOR, for opening the door to an unlimited world of creativity and for the memories that will inspire me for years to come.
Mihaela Caravan – Alchimia Award alumni at AUTOR Fair 2022
