When did you start silversmithing?
My interest in sculpting and art began early. I made my first wooden sculpture – a sailboat – when I was six. At 12, I made my first sculpture of a human. At 18, I ended up at the Jewellery Factory, where I started to work with silver and gold. On 17th January 1970 I made the decision to become a jewellery maker.
What inspires you?
I get inspired by nature, as well as by classical music and Old Masters' works from the 18th and the 19th centuries. Additionally, important sources of inspiration for me are philosophy, world religion and history, aspects of which appear in my large-scale silver works.
© Ligita Auzere
Has any moment in your career stood out?
There are many, but the years when Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga was the president of Latvia are very special. During those eight years, I created several compositions per month which the president was presenting as gifts from Latvia to leaders all over the world, including Queen Elizabeth II.
What advice would you give to aspiring artisans?
I would advise them to become a jewellery maker, because it is one of the most interesting professions, where you need to know a lot, and you will learn all your life. You will always be needed despite mass production, which is endangering this craft, because people care about the mastery.