This week in our Meet the Jeweller series we welcome jeweller Olga Sitnik, whose work focuses on showcasing the beauty of carefully sourced stones.
You moved from Kazakhstan to the United States in 2002 — how has your journey shaped you as an artist?
I was born and grew up in Kazakhstan, a country of natural beauty, which has always inspired me. I moved as a young adult, without a career, but with many passions. I have always enjoyed drawing, painting, sculpting and other types of art, but never in my wildest dreams did I see myself as a silversmith or jewelry maker. My passion for jewelry was born when I started working in an art gallery that specialized in handmade jewelry and photography. I remember being so intrigued with natural gemstones and their beauty and also being in awe of the amount of creativity of handmade jewelry artists.
You’ve said you never sketch — how does working directly with metal and stones influence your creative process?
Yes, sketching is not for me, just as I never read instructions (like assembly instructions, etc.), or follow recipes. I just go for it and I improvise. I pick a stone and I almost immediately know what I will do with it. Often I change plans as I go; it is all about improvisation with me. It's like painting - you see where you need to touch up a bit more as you go. I do the same with metal. I often add details that I did not plan from the beginning.
What first sparked your love of jewellery making when you were working in art galleries?
Gemstones :)
Do you remember the first piece you ever made, and do you still have it?
Yes, I remember my first piece. In my 'Introductory to metalsmithing' class we just learned how to saw metal and how to sweat solder. My first piece was a layered leaf, made with brass and copper; it was big and bulky, but I am still proud of it. I still have it.
Where do you source your stones, and do you enjoy that hunt as much as the making?
I mostly find stones during gem shows and some online. Etsy is a big one for me. I can spend hours searching for the right ones. It is a lot of fun to shop for stones. Almost as much fun as making jewelry.
What’s your favorite gemstone to work with, and why?
I don't have a favorite. I really like variety and switching things, that is why I always come up with something new. But one of my favorites is tourmaline. It comes in so many colors and you can find it in large sizes, and I love a large juicy tourmaline :)
Many of your designs are bold statement pieces — how do you balance drama and wearability?
It's all about balance. Both visual and physical - the piece has to not only look good, but feel good on, so there is a lot of "engineering", especially with large pieces.
Do you have a favourite piece you’ve ever made — one you’ll never sell — and what’s the story behind it?
I honestly don't. Almost every week I have a favorite. To me they all are small pieces of art, and I love sending them to the big world, sharing the beauty with others.
You’re self-taught in many techniques — what’s been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through experimentation?
Practice makes it perfect. I learn through doing, through trying, through making mistakes, adjusting and problem solving. But maybe the most valuable lesson is that one has to try, no matter how scary it might seem. Like the Nike motto - "just do it"!
Is there a jewellery-making skill or technique you’re hoping to try next?
I really want to start to flush set stones. In theory I know how to do it, but need to pick a day so I can practice.
What’s one tool in your workshop you couldn’t live without?
Oh, there are just so many. But most important are a torch, a jewelry saw and a hammer.
When you’re not making jewellery, what’s your favourite way to spend your time?
I love walking, nature walks especially, and I love watching movies cuddled next to my dog, Tasha (and husband, of course!). I don't read much anymore, because I strain my eyes working, so my eyes need to rest too.
What advice would you give to someone nervous about starting jewellery making without formal training?
Just go for it. Don't know how to make something or are unfamiliar with a specific technique? Watch a video (or two) on youtube and try! Make mistakes and learn from them. There is no better way to learn than through trying. Also, join metalsmithing groups on FB (like sisterhood of metalsmiths) - these communities are very helpful if you have a question. Experienced jewelers there are willing to help.
What’s next for you — are there new collections, stones, or styles you’re excited to explore?
Good question. I think I will continue developing my style, experimenting with new, possibly modern designs, and searching for new beautiful stones. It is such a fun journey, one I never get bored of. It is all very exciting.
Visit Olga's website to take a look at her stunning array of jewellery pieces, and follow her on Instagram to stay up-to-date on her latest creations.
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