In your work, are ancient and modern styles in dialogue?
Yes, I rework ancient techniques in a contemporary key: it is a hybrid approach. In my attempts to make series of works (for example the Knots) my way of working is clearly visible. I am very attracted by surface treatments, the 'skin' of objects, patinas and chromatic research.
Where do you find inspiration?
I am interested in organic forms but not necessarily ones found in nature. I am rather inspired by the history of art, by sculpture – Calder, Umberto Mastroianni, Arnaldo Pomodoro, Burri, Medardo Rosso, Colla – and by painting such as Bacon, the Expressionists. I like things that reappear in an unpredictable way over the years.
What interests you in a jewel?
The expressive aspect is fundamental in what I do. I am interested in the tactile as well as the visual aspect. For me the jewel as a status symbol is boring. I work on balance and imbalance, not on a decorative outcome.
What is a distinctive trait of your creations?
It is our uniqueness as craftsmen that is the most precious. I carry out a particular research on stones with a story, telling complex truths. Dendritic quartz have whole worlds inside them, for example. Difficult to find, there are an infinite variety of them, each one with different characteristics.