Siobhan Maher
Vala Cuff
An Art Deco-reminiscent flat profile twists and sweeps into soaring wings, a satin finish to the tips adding textural and visual contrast. The uppermost wings are lined with diamonds, highlighting the sweeping form of the cuff and drawing the eye along its curves. Channel set peacock pearls invite a tactile response, nestled amongst the smooth expanse of platinum.
Based upon the prophetic works of William Blake, the ‘Vala’ Cuff takes inspiration from the Four Zoas – realising the qualities of each one with a modern-day spiritual and aesthetic sensibility. The main body of the design represents Luvah, Zoa of emotion and love, the wings formed with the impression of twisted flat wire to symbolise Urthona, blacksmith Zoa of creativity and imagination. Tactile rows of pearls represent Tharmas, Zoa of sensation and instinct, and studded diamonds nod to the celestial nature of Urizen, Zoa of intellect and reason.
Blake’s prophetic works - a spiritual mythology - represent his attempt to create a new prophecy for his age. In our modern age, beliefs are often worn as talismans or charms; physical objects imbued with mystical properties, symbols worn to protect or inspire. The Vala cuff reflects these modern-day attitudes to spirituality, harnessing the timeless qualities of the Four Zoas in a clean and bold platinum design.
On her award Siobhan said “I’m thrilled to be one of this year’s Lonmin Design Innovation Award winners, particularly with a piece that explores literary inspirations and concepts close to my heart. Our manufacturing team have done an incredible job bringing my challenging design to reality, and I can’t wait to reveal the finished piece.”
About Siobhan Maher
Siobhan has worked as a fine jewellery designer for Domino Jewellery since graduating from the BCU Jewellery School in 2010. Also an English Literature graduate, she fuses her passions for literature and jewellery in her designs - seeking inspiration in poetry, mythology and fiction.
Siobhan Maher
Domino Jewellery
T +44 (0) 121 678 4134
E siobhan.maher@dominojewellery.com
