AZIBUYELE EMASISWENI ( RETURN TO YOUR ROOTS)
Sculpting and Curving
Saturday, November 25, 2023
Zulu pot pendant
This is a Zulu pot pendant which I designed on cad. The printing process of this pendant was a bit difficult since the pot was thin when I designed on CAD so that brought some difficulties even when it came to casting which became a mist casting.
Ukhamba ring
Monday, November 13, 2023
Inspiration
Research Methodology
n my research methodology, I firmly believe in the efficacy of employing surveys as an initial approach to comprehensively understand the desires and expectations of potential customers. Surveys offer a structured means to gather insights into what individuals are seeking and anticipating from my jewelry pieces. I intend to leverage social media platforms to conduct polls, tapping into a wide audience, as it serves as an accessible and engaging medium for individuals to voice their preferences. This method enables a broad reach and provides a space where individuals can comfortably express their opinions through their phones, a familiar and convenient tool for many.
Moreover, I see the potential in organizing open market days as a practical way to gather firsthand reviews and opinions directly from people interacting with my work. These events present an excellent opportunity to engage with a diverse range of individuals, each offering unique perspectives and ideas. The interactions during these market days would provide invaluable qualitative data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the audience's preferences and feedback regarding the wearable sculptural pieces and their desire to connect with their departed loved ones.
(UAI)
Research Problem and Aims
The central issue in my research lies in discerning whether people will perceive a compelling need to purchase my jewelry as a means of honoring and feeling close to their departed loved ones, given the array of existing options available. Notably, historical figures such as Queen Victoria established a significant legacy in memorial jewelry, exemplifying the expression of grief through fashion. This tradition continues with contemporary memorial pendants and lockets, integrating photographs or relics to foster a sense of closeness to the departed, like the use of ashes and hair in jewelry.
My specific objective, amidst the presence of numerous artists crafting memorial jewelry, is to provide a tactile and intimate experience for individuals seeking to feel a direct connection with their deceased loved ones. While the concept of incorporating hair and ashes into jewelry is not novel in the realm of remembrance, my focus on sculptural mini-faces aims to offer a distinct way for individuals to feel a tangible connection with the faces of their departed family members, even though they are no longer physically present. This vision strives to elevate the emotional and sensory engagement of remembrance jewelry beyond the established norms.
(UAI) to edit my grammar
Context of the Research
The core of my research centres on crafting jewellery that serves as a tangible remembrance of departed loved ones, deeply rooted in the reverence for the Amadlozi - ancestors who continue to play a crucial role in guiding and protecting us within the Nguni culture. My jewellery focuses on creating wearable mini sculptural pieces, portraying the faces of departed family members. This connection allows individuals to feel a continuous bond with their ancestors. The mini portrait sculptures also serve as a vessel for impepho (incense), traditionally used in communicating with ancestors for guidance, protection, or seeking blessings amidst life's uncertainties.
Although my jewellery-making process involves rich Zulu rituals specific to ancestor communication, my vision extends to making these pieces accessible beyond those who strictly adhere to these beliefs. I believe that while not everyone may subscribe to the idea of ancestral reverence, many view their departed loved ones as guardian angels. Hence, my work aligns with this sentiment, much like cremation jewellery that holds ashes or hair as a way to remain close to those who have passed. However, my approach differs by providing sculptural mini-faces with impepho or incorporating hair and ashes, ensuring a profound sense of closeness to the departed.
In the Nguni culture, the sacrifice of animals such as cows, goats, or rams plays a significant role in ceremonies related to Amadlozi, signifying tribute through the offering of blood spilled from these animals. This aspect deeply influences the symbolic nature and ritualistic significance of my jewelry-making process.
(UAI)