Abstract

This research aims to develop cross-cultural approaches to contemporary Western glass Jewellery design by using the Chinese philosophical notion of ‗harmony between man and nature‘ on glass and metal jewellery.
By analysing the principle of ‗harmony between man and nature‘, new approaches are developed. This is achieved by using cross-cultural practices, 3D prototyping techniques and glass studio practices to create glass jewellery designs.
The methodologies include: philosophical methodology and experimental research. Tacit knowledge drawn from previous experience is deployed to encourage experimentation with materials and the ways they are used in glass and jewellery practices. The research also utilises Chinese ‗holistic approaches‘, such as ‗harmony‘, ‗balance‘, ‗flexibility‘ and ‗change‘ to glass and jewellery making and the resulting aesthetics provide new practical strategies and contemporary glass jewellery designs.
By analysing Chinese culture and traditions I have facilitated six case studies which explore philosophical understandings through studio practice including the following six philosophical approaches: ‗Integration of Yin and Yang‘, ‗Unification of Time and Space‘, ‗Same Structure of Man and Nature‘, ‗the Concept of Change‘, ‗Self-cognition and External-cognition‘ and ‗Combination of Subject and Object‘.
Case studies are also used to examine personal approaches to studio practice using Chinese paintings and interpreting them into 3D designs and glass jewellery. Other studio techniques include: machine productions, 3D printing, water-jet cutting, hand making, silversmith, kiln casting and lampworking.
The resulting contemporary glass jewellery designs; informed by Chinese philosophy and traditions of ‗harmony between man and nature‘ provide a different and innovative approach to the field of glass and jewellery design and offers a new contribution to knowledge.