Helena Andersson

We proudly introduce the unique and inspired works of Helena Andersson. Helena utilises an eclectic range of materials including precious and semi precious metals in a combination with natural materials such as pounamu, wood, bone and precious stones. We had the pleasure of asking talented jewellery artist, Helena Andersson about what makes her tick and what her creative process looks like.

You originally hail from Sweden, and moved to Aotearoa some years ago. What inspired you to relocate?

Prior to my studies I worked with different jewellers in the South Island. Coming from Sweden, the jewellery design seemed more free and rustic compared to perfect, minimalistic pieces in Sweden. I enjoyed the freeforms and the imperfections in jewellery I saw in NZ.

During my studies I did two years as an exchange student in Auckland at MIT and with various artists and one of them was John Edgar who offered me a job after graduating with MFA in Sweden. I worked with him as a workshop assistant for two years which was amazing.

Do you find there to be similarities between the Swedish culture and environment and New Zealand?

I do and I don't! Similar space for the amount of population but in Sweden there are more old forests which I love to walk in. That is one of the things I miss most in NZ; being able to walk freely in any forest. Here we have beautiful beaches which gives you the sense of freedom too but to me it's a different feeling.
Culture. I have been fascinated by the Pacific and Māori culture since I first came to NZ. Love that it's in everyday life!
Something to be proud of.
Swedish culture seems a bit bleak but I have been brought up in it so I guess I take it for granted. I do love the Swedish traditions and there is something to celebrate each month. Always something to look forward to.

You are inspired by the shapes and forms of the 50's and 60's. How does your jewellery evolve around this idea?

Growing up in Sweden you have design all around you, and there were many inventions during that time that had a unique design. For me, shapes and forms from the 50's to the 60s has an uneven balance.
I try to incorporate this form awareness with influences I have in NZ.

You work with a diverse range of materials in your jewellery. What initially draws you to create works from the materials?

I always been curious and want to try new ideas and materials. I get restless doing the same items over and over again but of course it's a privilege to be asked to make something again and to find out what customers like and appreciate. Most of my pieces I can't duplicate but I can make a similar piece in the same style. I like the idea of each pieces is special and unique.

What does a typical day creating look like for you?

I normally spend the day in the workshop where one creation leads to another.
I love trying new ideas and to experiment. Some work out and some don't.
I put failure away to revisit and resolve when I get a new idea.

If you could visit one place over a Kiwi Summer, where in Aotearoa would you go and why?

My favourite spot in the North Island must be Freedom camping at Tologa Bay on the East Coast. It's only 45 minutes drive from Gisborne but it feels remote and the beach is beautiful. Slower pace of life!