Katherine Rudolph
[2009, Jewelry & Metalsmithing]
Based in Nashua, NH
What are some of the most important practices for your creative process?
My design process often begins with paper models which I find translate well into thin gauge sheet metal. The sheet metal, like the paper can be scored and fold into crisp forms. This is a favorite technique, as it allows for voluminous yet deceivingly lightweight forms. I work primarily in sterling silver and 18k gold, adding pops of color through the use of stones, as well as contrast and depth with oxidation. Choosing to work with stock materials such as sheet, tubing and wire allows for a degree of precision as well as interchangeability of “building components” which lend itself to the explorations of repetition and pattern. To achieve my personal vision, I try to listen to the materials to understand their properties so that I may work in symphony with rather than against these qualities, giving the final design the air of simple elegance. My jewelry ranges from easy to wear everyday adornment to sculptural art objects worn as conversation pieces.
How does your current creative practice tie into your time spent at RISD?
The time I spent at RISD undoubtedly left a lasting mark on my creative practice. Like my workspace in the Metcalf building, my bench is still piled with paper models and the studio walls are covered in architectural clippings from magazines and photos taken while traveling. Since graduating, I have often returned to my sketch books from college as well as material studies and a box of models created for assignments during my time at RISD. They have been invaluable as jumping off points for new work.
Tell us about some of your main sources of inspiration.
My work is highly inspired by architectural forms. Photos taken while traveling often serve as the origins of a design. When looking to the skyline, I enjoy isolating specific buildings and deconstructing them with an interest in understanding their logic and order. The smallest architectural details don’t go overlooked. I am continuously adding to my digital image collection and clipping file from various publications which are referenced as sources of inspiration. One of my primary challenges is the reinterpretation of these architectural references in the scale of jewelry and the body. Specific architectural references that have inspired my jewelry include: The Ca’ d’Oro -Venice, Italy. Richard Meier’s Jubilee Church -Rome. Neuschwanstein Castle-Germany. The Air Force Academy Chapel- Colorado and the aesthetic of Santiago Calatrava.
Is there a work/body of work that you are particularly excited about sharing with us at RISD Craft this year?
My current body of work further explores the possibilities of scoring and folding 26 and 24 gauge silver and gold sheet, to create voluminous yet deceivingly light weight forms. I am focusing on scoring curved lines, which when folded create a unique combination of convex and concave surfaces. The “Scored Leaf Necklace” which I designed at RISD and which won first place in the International Precious Metals Institute design competition in 2009, was the catalyst for my continued interest in this particular fabrication technique. Through exploration of line and form, the scoring and folding technique has led to my current body of work, which includes the Scallop series.
Any recent press, exhibitions, achievements or awards you’d like to share with us?
In February 2017 I was juried into the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen and will be participating in The Shop At The Fair during the annual Craftsmen’s Fair in August 4-12.
In 2014 I joined the committee of the Nashua International Sculpture Symposium and have actively been participating in fundraising and the coordination of our annual symposium. 2018 marked our 11th anniversary.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Additional pieces can be found at etsy.com/shop/katherinerudolph
