The curiosity for the materials and crafts that Lukas Grewenig developed growing up defines the basis for his brand LUKASCASPAR jewellery. Innovation plays a big role in his first collection which features newly developed stone cuts, clever catches and a patent pending technique that makes symbols and images magically appear on some of the pieces.
We caught up with Lukas ahead of IJL 2019 to discuss his collections, inspirations and KickStart experience.
What made you want to apply to be a KickStarter at IJL 2019?
I have visited the IJL every year since I moved to London and when I launched my collection last year it was clear, that one of my goals would be to exhibit there as well. A few friends of mine were part of the Kickstarter program in 2018 and they were very happy afterward with how it helped them develop their network and grow their business.
What are you most looking forward to during your KickStart experience?
Naturally I am looking forward to showing my new collection to a large audience of industry professionals and hope I will get a lot of valuable feedback. In the last year my focus has been mostly on selling to private client and exhibiting at events like Goldsmith’s Fair or other end customer shows. So for the IJL my main goals are to further establish my brand, expand my professional network and get to know potential retailers that could show my work in the whole of the UK but I am also looking forward to have a good time with my fellow “Kickstarters”.
Tell us about where you get your inspiration from?
When I started designing this collection I was fascinated by the romanticism of Victorian sentimental jewellery. I took some element of this and contrasted them with the modern aesthetic that I drew from my research into technical geometries. One of the most exciting influences for the collection was a surface structure that I developed which enables me to hide images or symbols in the pieces.
Tell us a little about the work you will be bringing to IJL 2019?
In my design process I am always guided by my curiosity for the crafts. I look at every step and component that goes into the making and include subtle technical details to refine and elevate the overall look of my jewellery. My first collection “Victoria” for example features hand carved gemstones, special faceted cuts, unique setting techniques and a newly developed clasp among other innovations. My goal is always to use the craftsmanship in a way that it never becomes too prominent. It has to be used so skilfully that it almost becomes invisible.
When did you first discover your love of jewellery?
I grew up in a family of jewellers and I spend a lot of my childhood in my grandparents and parents workshops. So the love for the Materials and the craftsmanship that my parents had must have been passed on when I was still growing up.
If you had to summarise your brand in a couple of words, what would you use?
Modern, elegant, effortless
Make sure to register for your FREE ticket to IJL 2019 and pay a visit to the cutting-edge talent on the KickStart and Bright Young Gem collective stand in the prestigious design gallery.