Singer, songwriter and jewellery designer Boh Runga’s latest project is an elegant collection of accessories called Shapes. Editor Trudi Brewer shares her unique style expression.
“This particular work represents the ever-changing state of consciousness - from formlessness to substance and awareness.”
Fashion is subjective, but trends rule when it comes to accessories. This season more refined jewellery is on-trend, perfect timing for a range inspired by three simple forms; the circle; the triangle, and the square. Designer Boh Runga shares her philosophy behind the collection.
Q&A
What inspired the new Shapes collection?
Shapes collection took inspiration from a beautiful calligraphic painting by the Zen Buddhist monk Sengai Gibon. His life's work was to explain the ideals of his beliefs for the everyday man. This particular work of his represents the ever-changing state of consciousness - from formlessness to substance and awareness. The painting features a circle, triangle, and square, which make up the key pieces in the new range.
Was the range challenging to make?
As with any jewellery range, there can be a few tweaks in design, and that happened with the Shoops (the shaped round hoop statement earrings). It's the first time I've designed a hoop earring like this - but it's all part of the process- and the result made it worthwhile.
Who did you have in mind when creating it?
With the necklaces and bracelets, someone who would like a token to remind them that everything changes, and living in the moment is essential. With the Shoops, these may be for someone with a love of simplicity and modernism, as they are bold and striking but with clean lines.
Boh's design inspiration by Zen Buddhist monk Sengai Gibon.
“The painting features a circle, triangle, and square, which make up the key pieces in the new range.”
Do the shapes represent anything?
In the most simplistic of explanations, Sengai Gibon wanted people to interpret his work in their way, it's the same with my collection. The circle is significant as the beginning of all things; the triangle is one's mind coalescing their conscious thought. Finally, the square is the signature of formation, but not the finalisation of that consciousness and awareness.
Are you tempted to design another fashion item?
Boh Runga Jewellery is a gifting brand, designing more fashion pieces is definitely on the cards, but I'd like the designs to have meaning, and come with a story worth telling.
Best styling tip on how to wear the range?
Wear the pieces every day. The necklaces and bracelets are designed to be layered together, with any existing pieces, you may have. They come with adjustment points to help you style the accessories at different lengths. The Shoops earrings, although quite large, are not heavy, so are perfect to wear everyday with jeans, and a T-shirt for the weekend, or with that little black dress for a cocktail party. Although the best way to wear my jewellery - is with a smile and an open heart.
The Shapes collection is available in silver, gold, and rose gold, priced from $89.
