Abstract
My thesis is a visual narrative expression of co-existence in relationships. As I look deep inwards, I think about what has shaped the person I am today. I realize that if it were not for my learning to adapt and co-exist and the people I have met in my life, I would not be able to appreciate my personal evolution. Whether with self, family, society or the universe - behaviors like maintaining balance, flexibility, self-introspection, respect and transformation are all some fundamental stepping stones to co-existence.
For my thesis, I have crafted wearable jewelry, interactive small-scale objects and kinetic body sculptures that symbolize supporting aspects of co-existence. I have also used the physical body parts to be a sign of co-existence in my design compositions, as it offers a beautiful coordination between our thoughts and actions.
Synchronization of diversities being the core concept of my thesis, I hunted for materials to translate this idea. I found that paper and plastic sheets have a similar way of molding, but are also different in how they resist change. In the same way, metal and glass are also similar in how they flow in the molten state, but once solidified, they change. These contradictions in material behaviors are some elements that I have used as an additional metaphor to my theory. Applying design elements such as repetition, rhythm, contrast and balance, I designed a collection that speaks of various phases in togetherness. I used a classic combination of black, grey and half white with transparent, matte and metallic finishes as contrasts, since the look they build together is an apt vibe that can suit my idea of unity in diversity.
My thesis therefore is a visual evidence of co-existence in every sense of concept, material, color and composition as it highlights the bigger union of togetherness.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Artist-designed jewelry--Themes, motives; Art metal-work--Themes, motives
Publication Date
11-7-2018
Document Type
Thesis
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Metals and Jewelry Design (MFA)
Department, Program, or Center
School for American Crafts (CAD)
Advisor
Leonard Urso
Advisor/Committee Member
Juan Carlos Caballero-Perez
Advisor/Committee Member
David Schnuckel
Recommended Citation
Valluru, Samyuktha, "Co-exist" (2018). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/9961
Campus
RIT – Main Campus
Plan Codes
METAL-MFA
