When did you realize that a career in the creative field was the right path for you? Are there any iconic books and artists that guided you through the art world? I am asking this because you are currently studying at the Academy of Fine Art in Gdansk.

I realised this when I stopped forcing myself to pursue activities and work that I wasn’t naturally suited to and began following a more creative path that came more easily to me. I decided that it was worth pursuing a path that aligned with my natural abilities, which led me to apply to the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk. It turned out to be an excellent decision, as being surrounded by creative people and engaging in a wide variety of projects further stimulated my creative thinking. It was mainly the environment I found myself in that helped me find my place in the art world, as I had very little knowledge of the field before starting my studies.

How did you start building your creative brand? Is there anything you wish you had known when you first started out in your career?

I started by creating an Instagram profile, promoting my work in Facebook groups, and listing my jewellery on second-hand clothing and accessories platforms. If there is one thing I wish I had known from the beginning, it is that I didn’t need to feel so stressed about sharing content online.

What stories are your products telling to the public? How does the public interact with your jewellery pieces?

My main source of inspiration is nature, particularly the elements. Glass reminds me most of water and ice, but when shaped in certain ways, it can also resemble air. Thanks to its transparency, it can even reflect the moving flame of fire. I also like to incorporate crystals into the glass, as they remind me of something rooted in the earth and shaped by the influence of these elements.

Recently, I awarded you the Atelierul Award – The Iconic Ones, from your perspective what is the Transparent Breath? How was the exhibition Transparent Breath for you?

From my perspective, Transparent Breath is an event that brings together people fascinated by the properties of glass, who may share a similar way of perceiving it despite the great diversity of works presented in the exhibition. My experience of Transparent Breath was, above all, an accumulation of an immense amount of beauty in a small space. It was wonderful to participate in the exhibition alongside artists creating such exceptional works and art enthusiasts who make events like this possible. I am grateful that my works were appreciated and that I was awarded The Iconic Ones award.

How do you envision showcasing your jewelry in a society that is becoming more and more digital?

I started presenting my jewellery digitally from the very beginning, so I think this is the most natural approach for me. Today, most people use social media platforms, which also encourages artists to develop additional skills, such as photography and digital editing, in order to present their work as faithfully and aesthetically as possible through a computer screen.

What steps do you take to ensure authenticity and sensitivity in your illustrations and stories?

I try to create my work in a way that reflects as faithfully as possible the original vision I had in mind.

What is the most important lesson you learned in your creative career? What was the best advice you received from somebody working in the creative and cultural industries?

The most important lesson is one I am still learning: to bring my ideas to life as soon as they come to me, because otherwise someone else might realise them first. The best advice I have received was not to be afraid of the fact that glass is fragile.

 

How do you deal with plagiarism? Did it happen to you?

I cannot say for certain whether I have been a victim of plagiarism. I have seen works similar to mine that were created later, but ultimately, they involved the use of a similar technique. But I take it as a compliment.

What do you think is the greatest challenge for a jewellery designer right now?

I think the greatest challenge is the cost of equipment, materials, and the safety measures that need to be installed in a studio. These expenses can be a particularly significant barrier for designers who are just starting out.

What advice can you give to a jewellery designer that is starting a creative business?

My advice is what I mentioned earlier: bring your ideas to life as soon as possible, especially when they excite you and leave a strong impression on you. If you wait too long, you can almost always expect to see someone else produce an almost identical version of your idea because they decided not to wait.

All the photos have been sent from Malwina Szadkowska’s archive.

Thank you Elenora Varotto and The Transparent Breath exhibition for the opportunity to award your curated designers.