How do you feel cultural identity affects your work?
Craft is an intrinsic part of cultural heritage and identity. National cultural identities always spring from individual artistic endeavours. These are influenced by the cultural climate at a given time and historical background; it is a relationship.
What do you love most about your profession?
Knowing that I am a link in an unbroken chain of craftspeople; bringing my own creativity to this craft. I am fortunate that people respond positively to my work. It spurs me on to experiment with new directions, dares me to tread upon untrodden ground.
© Rudolf Heltzel
How do you come up with your ideas?
For me designing is a mental exercise. I set myself a theme, an abstract idea. It could be a circle, a colour, a certain cut of stone, an abandoned technique, a fleeting impression in a window. Initial ideas ripen, are mulled over, developed, put on paper.
Why do you make pieces that are technically complex?
I enjoy the challenge, both intellectually and in the forming process. My designs are different to conventional jewellery designs. I want to use difficult techniques, explore new methods, use rare and beautiful stones, and use the best of materials.