Willemien Stephni Bruwer (1997) grew up in the Western Cape, South Africa. She completed her BA(VA) in Creative Jewellery and Metal Design in Stellenbosch University in 2021. She completed her MA(VA) in Jewellery Design, Silver- & Goldsmithing at PXL-MAD School of Art in Hasselt, Belguim in 2023.
History
Nature, birds, insects - these aspects of my local environment in South Africa plays a large role in my creative upbringing. My design language and choice of specific themes are all linked to my roots of catching insects while hiking in the beautiful scenery of the Langeberge near Robertson. A deep respect for Nature and all its' components where ingrained within me from both my parents from a very young age. Wildlife activism by the breaking of animal snares in the mountains by my father is a core memory that drives my creative output.
Experience
Assistant Jewellery Designer
Full-time internship with luxury jewellery brand Nayestones. I assisted in the alteration of previous designs in Rhino Cad. I collaborated in the creation of a new range of fine jewellery pieces. I created basic 3D animations for social media use.
https://nayestones.com/
hello@nayestones.com
July - October 2023
Silver- & Goldsmith Internship
Part-time internship at Huis Pauwels Spaenjers. I completed basic goldsmith tasks as well as custom pieces designed by the owners. I also had to help clients as a sales assistant in the Multiples side of the store front. I assisted with the media-creation for the shop's social media, as well as the maintenance of the business' website.
October 2022 - April 2023
Student Studio Manager
Part-time position managing the maintenance of three fully equipped student jewellery studios at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. I also had to complete general administration work, as well as sales of basic jewellery supplies to students and employees in the jewellery department of the university.
February - September 2022