Open Studio #4... Zoe Grigoris

Jeweller and object maker Zoe Grigoris is a seeker of solitude. Whether working on her ephemeral jewellery pieces or absorbed in the storylines of her favourite authors, she brings a sense of wonder to her everyday. Despite her background in the dramatic arts, Zoe’s character, and her coveted designs, are quintessentially her own; equal parts warm and dreamy and, of course, careful and meticulous.

Photos by Vanessa Heath.

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in Adelaide. I’ve always had an interest in the arts, growing up I studied piano for 13 years. I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Drama at Flinders University in 2011 before going on to complete a degree in Visual Arts at the University of South Australia specialising in Jewellery and Metal in 2014. I completed the JamFactory Associate Training Program in 2016 and now I run my practice as a tenant in Jam’s Studio #4.

Tell us about your studio...

In our studio there are lots of plants and piles of books that seem to grow like stalagmites from every surface! Dani and I wanted a space that feels equally productive, as it is beautiful, somewhere our clients feel comfortable to visit. Being a jeweller is such a solitary job, most of your time is spent sitting in one spot staring at something tiny so we have also have a small communal area for tea breaks.

What or who are some of your influences?

My influences change all the time and are quite disparate. Often whatever I’m reading or listening to inspires me in someway. I still watch a lot of performance so you’ll spy images of Pina Bausch on the walls of my studio; I love how she captured emotion though the use of movement and stage design. The day-dreamy colours of the Impressionists also make their way into my work in soft shell pinks and mermaid blues.

Aesthetically my work is feminine, romantic and ephemeral I use a lot of heart and floral motifs, which are equally inspired by our natural world as they are by the unreal. I’m not sure what people see when they look at my work but I hope they feel a sense of wonder.

“In the last year I’ve been playing with display and in creating the environment around my pieces, thinking about more than just the object and playing with experience.”

Inspiration sits at home amongst Zoe’s own work.

Repoussé and hand painted patterns feature heavily in Zoe’s feminine pieces.

How do you stay inspired?

I find it difficult to make the same thing over and over so I change what I’m doing quite regularly; it helps when you have multiple projects on the go. I don’t plan my work much so finding time to play and experiment with new ideas is important in my practice and allowing myself the space to try something new even if it fails, usually leads to something I’m really happy with. On days when I feel completely drained of inspiration I try to be kind to myself and not force it.

How do you like to spend your time outside of your studio?

I’m a prolific reader; I will happily read all day. Exercising has become really important in the last few years, hammering the patterns in my work is hard on my body; so most days either begin or end by going for a run or a long walk and Pilates! I’m lucky to have my family around me and meeting at Yiayia’s for lunch is a pretty common weekend activity.

What do you enjoy most about your medium?

I love how metal can be manipulated to achieve patterns and textures. Sometimes working in precious metals means being quite measured and meticulous but when I make my patterns it’s more intuitive and free.

“It’s incredibly special to have the opportunity to make work that becomes a meaningful symbol in someone’s life; I’ve heard so many beautiful stories and it always brings me joy to play a small role in it.”

What projects are you currently working on?

I’m currently working towards an upcoming group exhibition, Companions at Pieces of Eight in Melbourne (30 June - 25 July). As well as private commissions, which stay super secret till they find their homes.