Not one to follow a well-tested formula, Mayyan Jaffar creates extraordinary jewellery with an inclination to disrupt the status quo.
OHLALA – What sparked the desire to establish MJ by Mayyan Jaffar?
Mayyan Jaffar – I think jewellery was always going to be part of my world. Growing up within Asia Jewellers, I was surrounded by extraordinary stones, craftsmanship and beautiful creations. But I was equally surrounded by art, imagination and an appreciation for things that were a little unconventional.
Over time, I realised that admiring beautiful jewellery wasn’t quite enough for me. I wanted to create something that didn’t exist. I’ve never been particularly interested in following a formula. I love questioning proportions, experimenting with materials and imagining how something familiar could become completely unexpected.
MJ grew out of that curiosity. It gave me the freedom to explore my own creative language, one that is sculptural, expressive, sometimes playful and not always interested in following the rules.
OHLALA – What is the common thread among all your collections thus far?
Mayyan – I would say movement, transformation and a certain freedom from convention.
I’m fascinated by contradictions. How can something as rigid as gold appear fluid? How can a geometric shape feel sensual? How can something architectural become soft and feminine? These are the little challenges that excite me.
Nature, architecture and the world around me constantly influence my work, but I rarely interpret them literally. I like to abstract, exaggerate, simplify and sometimes deliberately disrupt what is expected. I suppose there’s always a little rebellion in my designs.
OHLALA – Is there a particular muse or inspiration that enables you to bring out your best work?
Mayyan – I’m fascinated by women who have presence. Not necessarily the most conventionally beautiful women, but those who have something magnetic about them. A woman can walk into a room wearing the simplest outfit and somehow command everyone’s attention. It’s the way she moves, her confidence, her mystery, her attitude.
Monica Bellucci embodies much of that for me. There’s an effortless sensuality and strength about her that I find captivating.
But inspiration isn’t limited to people. It can come from architecture, sculpture, a beautiful silhouette, an unexpected colour combination or even a fleeting moment. I’m constantly observing and imagining. Sometimes the smallest detail can become the beginning of an entire collection.
OHLALA – What about vintage 1950s’ cinema makes it one of your influences?
Mayyan – I love the drama of that era. Not just the glamour, but the attitude. The women of 1950s’ cinema understood the art of making an entrance. There was elegance, sensuality, confidence and often a wonderful sense of mystery.
Jewellery wasn’t simply an accessory. It was part of the character, part of the story, almost an extension of the wom
Read more from original article, all rights reserved Mayyan Jaffar Designs with an Eye for the Unconventional
Leave a Reply