Magic Realism and Interactivity: A New Era of Jewellery Design. Blending Fantasy, Emotion, and Innovation in the Joy Economy
Magic Realism and Interactivity: A New Era of Jewellery Design. Blending Fantasy, Emotion, and Innovation in the Joy Economy
Credits: Antonia Ascolillo @lillizup
Escapism in Modern Society has become a significant coping mechanism, particularly for Gen Z, who seek memorable experiences over material possessions. This trend is driven by:
Mental Health Awareness as the pandemic has increased the focus on mental well-being, making escapism a tool for managing stress and anxiety. Personalization, as Gen Z value experiences that reflect their unique identities and preferences. Creative Outlet Activities like reading, art and gaming, provide mental recharge and new perspectives.
Credits: Stephen Webster @stephenwebsterjewellery and @fashsplash.ai
Aesthetics: It’s about magic. Reality blends with fantastical elements, creating dreamlike atmospheres. Emerging in the early 20th century, this movement portrayed ordinary scenes with magical or surreal qualities, contrasting the mundane with the extraordinary. Prominent in literature and visual arts, this movement invites viewers to question the nature of reality, making it an intriguing concept for jewellery designs that combine everyday elegance with whimsical, imaginative touches, appealing to consumers' desire for unique, story-rich pieces. Surrealism is embedded in the world of magic and escapism, taking its inspiration from Walt Disney to Elsa Peretti and Andy Warhol. The aesthetics of the joy economy and escapism focus on vibrant, expressive and personalized designs, including: Cartoonish Characters, and Pop motifs revisited with strong humour. Bright and Playful Colours, cheerful and uplifting colour palettes splashed in everyday accessories and objects of desire, including jewellery. Whimsical and Imaginative Designs, incorporating elements of fantasy and creativity. Personalized and Tailored Pieces: customizable designs that reflect individual identities and preferences.
Credits: Daniela Villegas @danielavillegasjewelry and Morena Fregonese Maitai Jewels @maitai_jewels, Officine di Talenti Preziosi @officineditalentipreziosi and MINED + FOUND @minedandfound
Jewellery Design Directions: Jewellery in this context should focus on emotional and personal connections, designs that tell a story or convey a message of joy and fairytales. This includes: Interactive and Playful Elements, incorporating elements that engage the wearer and evoke a sense of play, such as pets, lips, bubbles, and polka dots. Abstract Design and Anti-Gravity 3D Structures: for pendants, cuffs, and statement necklaces, clustered with diamonds or coloured gemstones. Inspiration from Abstract Expressionism dating from the 1950s, suggests the use of bright colours as joyful splashes of positive energy. Circular Design, encouraging the use of unconventional materials associated with precious or alternative recycled metals, such as aluminium. Pieces that stand out and make a statement.
