Collection 1, Part 1: ART DECO, Gatsby Motifs

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"You Can't repeat the past." "Can't repeat the past?" he cried incredulously. "Why of course you can!" - The Great Gatsby // Chapter 6

While my goal is not to recreate the American Dream like Jay, I do intend to bring apart of the past back to our jewelry boxes. Art Deco design has always been one of my favourite art and design movements of the 20th century. Its ambitious mission to bring life back into society after World War 1, enabled a style that screamed movement, glamour, luxury and technological advancement, or in other words the "future". Short for Arts Décoratifs, from the Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes (International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts) held in Paris in 1925. The visual arts, architecture, and design drew inspiration from modern design, with a touch of fine craftsmanship and rich materials (chrome plating, stainless steel, ivory, and ebony). Its bold geometric forms and patterns, create a fluid experience for the viewer. Though there is much to learn about this short, but impactful period, I have chosen to start with an introduction that many would be familiar with.

The Great Gatsby (1925) is considered a classic on many levels (designated GAN), in fact some may even argue it is THE Greatest American Novel. The literature itself is outstanding, but what makes it stand out most, is the way F. Scotts Fitzgerald was able to capture the Jazz Age in America in 218 pages. Sadly, due to this digital age and people's preference for movies over books, few people I know have ever read the masterpiece (really, truly recommend). On the plus side, the 2013 DiCaprio and Mulligan film portrayed the story's landscape perfectly. The display of wealth and luxury through the film's set design showcased the Art Deco era in all its glory.

I started Campbell Heritage to learn more about my family’s history and the effects culture can have on many generations. As a way to pay homage to my four grandparents or the “founders” of my life, I have chosen to represent the time period in which they were all born (1920s-30s). Inspired by Art Deco motifs, a collection of stained glass window hangings and earrings, made from recycled glass. 20% of proceeds go to Willowbank School of Restoration arts.