JULIA MARIN

HOW WERE YOU FIRST INTRODUCED TO THIS  TYPE OF WORK/ARTISTIC PRACTICE - AND WHAT  DID YOU ENJOY ABOUT YOUR EARLY  EXPLORATION OF IT?

My beginnings in jewellery started over 15 years ago back in Argentina when I was doing Fashion Design and took a course in traditional silversmithing to explore a different medium. Metals, precious stones and fire! What not to like? I was instantly hooked. It became my main interest.

HOW HAS YOUR WORK/ARTISTIC PRACTICE CHANGED AND DEVELOPED OVER THE YEARS? WHAT FACTORS DO YOU THINK AFFECTED THIS?

Initially and while learning the craft, it was a hobby. I’d play with shapes exploring processes and making things for myself and friends or just for the fun of making something. Later on I started working with gold and diamonds and over the years it has developed into a career and a profession that I love and feel lucky for. I specialise in custom pieces and small collections which is most gratifying as it allows me to be involved in some of the happiest moments in people’s lives like weddings, engagements and anniversaries. 

PLEASE DESCRIBE WHERE YOU WORK FROM? WHAT DO YOU FIND SPECIAL ABOUT LIVING OUT WEST? 

My workshop has taken a small room downstairs in our house from where I can hear the ocean and the tuis. Is big enough to have all I need and small enough to feel cosy. There is a desk, a working table, my bench, books, photos, metal, fire, gems, things being made, finished pieces and things always about to start, a synchronised mess…

Is located in Auckland’s west coast village of Piha, a small beach community full of life and surrounded by the beautiful Waitakere ranges. A place we love and call home.

WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT TO SEE WHEN  THEY VISIT YOUR STUDIO DURING OSW?  

They will be greeted by a semi-steep path up to the house, but don’t be scared by it, I will have lemonade at the top! When they arrive to the house, they will see the space where I design and make all my pieces, possibly some work in process, me soldering something or banging a hammer on a ring; they will see finished work on display and all the tools I use to make it.

NAME YOUR TOP 5 SECRET SPOTS YOU LIKE TO  VISIT IN THE WAITAKERE RANGES? 

Most of my most adored bush walks are currently under Rahui so I am now taking longer walks on the beach in Piha and in Karekare and exploring the coast and its caves with more detail. The Gap is a summer ‘must’ for the swims and the views. Going up and over to Whites is also a favourite. Mercer Bay is a secret gem accessible via Te Ahu Ahu or Karekare.

Photos by: Julia Marin