ORIGINS
April Higashi Jewelry
November 15 - December 30, 2024
1816 Fourth Street, Berkeley
SHIBUMI presents ORIGINS, a show featuring new work by owner and curator April Higashi.
The work in this show is a fusion of ethnic and worldly influences. Envision a pair of earrings worn in a Turkish tea house or a black coral and gold necklace perhaps worn by a high priestess during a ceremony.
As I move into this next phase of my career, I am more deeply and profoundly exploring the origins of my materials. Where exactly do the materials I create with come from? When I pick up a stone or a piece of metal, what is its history? Last year, I traveled to Tahiti to better understand the story behind the pearls I create many of my pieces with. It was truly one of the most fascinating and inspiring trips of my life. With this next phase of my career, I envision more deep dives into the stories behind my materials and look forward to the creative inspiration that's sparked with this experience and insight.
I've always been intrigued by the era of the Silk Road. A man and horse traveling to pursue something as small and precious as a grain of salt also resulted in the bridging and sharing of cultures, religions, traditions, and artistic styles. With age, my curiosity and sense of wonder have only grown. I long to experience the origin of my materials and meet and show my appreciation to the cultures and people who have inspired me and, in a distant way, helped me to create my work.
-April Higashi
“My life’s passion has always revolved around not only jewelry, but also the art of display and presentation. This passion gave rise to SHIBUMI - an endeavor aimed at providing a uniquely beautiful experience.
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