We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Maria Kotsoni ("MK").
Maria Kotsoni is a Cyprus-based, award-winning jeweller and micro sculptor, blending antiquity with contemporary design in 18K gold and natural diamonds. Raised in an artistic family and a Central Saint Martin’s graduate, she launched her eponymous brand in 2017 after showcasing her work in group and solo exhibitions across Europe and New York. Her sculptural pieces interact with the human body, evoking reverence for the past while embracing the present. Maria’s signature jewels are expressions of individuality, embodying timeless elegance and a profound connection to cultural heritage.
Maria Kotsoni Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Maria Kotsoni.
Maria Kotsoni Design - Smiley Spiked Flexible Cuff Bracelet
Designer Interview of Maria Kotsoni:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
MK : I was born into an artistic family and had a carefree childhood, close to nature, by the sea and amongst the antiquities in Paphos, Cyprus. I guess all that nursed my artistic nature. Since childhood, I was drawn into small three dimensional shapes like pebbles, fragments of ancient ruins and natural forms like shells and insects or plants. I became familiar with all these stimuli by collecting and studying them. By the age of seventeen, I was certain I wanted to become a jewellery designer.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
MK : My company was founded in 2005 when I decided to settle in Cyprus after my studies in London and after living and working as a free lance designer and an independent Artist in Athens, Greece. My design studio and Showroom is situated in the historic center of the Cyprus capital, Nicosia.
DI: What is "design" for you?
MK : Design for me is my form of expression.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MK : I am a jewellery designe, so that would be jewellery
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
MK : I cannot speak of a most favorite; all my designs are expressions of ideas and carry on messages, perceived by those who are sensitive enough to appreciate them. I guess I feel more connected to some pieces than others but the connection is unique with each different piece as it expresses a different idea.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
MK : My favorite media is gold which I love it’s authentic yellow color, reminiscent of the ancient masterpieces that inspired me.