It has been scientifically proven that some of the strongest relationships that exist in nature are those between women.

The jewellery pieces take form of breast shields—an ancient form of adornment, often designed to provide protection for the most vital of organs—our heart. The project relies on that symbolism throughout the series, exploring the coexisting paradox of deepest love and injury—often equally self-inflicted when projected out, and speaks of the uniquely female narrative, present from the beginning of time.

Although the jewellery pieces can function separately, their true message becomes apparent only when viewed within their corresponding pair. Similar choice of material, execution and perceived likeness between the paired elements, closes into a single, intimate theme, 

For this exhibition, Ivana Marić teams up with photographer Trudy Kelder in exploration of universal female experiences that connect us and also tear us apart. The narrative borrows from art, history and contemporary culture, but the sitters were all pooled from the artists’ closest friends and family, making this project an intimate journey.

Some of the work was shown during Radiant Pavilion Objects and Jewellery Biennale 2021.

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