Illuminating Traditions: The Contemporary Jewelry Art of Amir Sheikhvand

Amir Sheikhvand's jewelry collection "Illumination: A Synthesis of Persian and Indian Artistic Traditions" is a masterful blend of historical inspiration and contemporary design. Drawing from the rich heritage of 15th and 16th-century Persian miniature paintings and illuminated manuscripts, Sheikhvand creates pieces that honor traditional craftsmanship while pushing the boundaries of modern jewelry design.

The collection's foundation lies in the harmonious balance between colors, images, and text found in Persian manuscripts. Sheikhvand meticulously selects color combinations and forms inspired by lavish book illustrations and painted enamel works of the era. His innovative approach incorporates gemstones as fragments of manuscripts and prints, mounted in wire frame settings that echo the delicate artistry of historical illuminations.

To achieve the desired textures and compositions, Sheikhvand employs a diverse range of materials, including gold, wood, brass, copper, silver, steel, gold leaf, printed paper, and paint. His technique combines traditional methods such as filigree work, Persian enameling (Mina-kary) and wood inlay (Khatam-Kary) with modern processes like 3D modeling and powder coating. This fusion of old and new allows him to deconstruct and reassemble traditional Persian art forms into abstract compositions reminiscent of contemporary artworks.

The influence of Indian artistic traditions is evident in Sheikhvand's work, reflecting the historical exchange of ideas along the Silk Roads. During the Safavid period (1501-1736 CE), Persian art absorbed significant elements from Indian miniatures, including realistic representations of flora and fauna, artificial lighting techniques, and detailed portraiture. Sheikhvand incorporates these elements, infusing his pieces with a sense of realism that complements the traditional Persian emphasis on harmony and balance.

Key features of Sheikhvand's collection include geometric forms, often cubic, combined with organic shapes and grid systems. The use of solid colors and repetition creates a visual language that bridges historical artistic traditions with contemporary aesthetics. By allowing the materials to speak for themselves while manipulating them in innovative ways, Sheikhvand obscures their original sources, creating intriguing and unique pieces.

By synthesizing these diverse historical influences with contemporary design principles, Sheikhvand creates jewelry that is both timeless and innovative. His pieces celebrate the enduring legacy of Persian and Indian art while speaking to modern aesthetics. The collection "Illumination" stands as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and artistic evolution, bridging centuries of tradition with the bold vision of a contemporary designer.

In 2024, Sheikhvand's work gained prestigious recognition when the Raffaele Cominelli Foundation selected one of his brooches for their permanent collection of contemporary jewelry. This inclusion demonstrates the high regard for Sheikhvand's artistic vision and craftsmanship among curators of fine art jewelry.

Sheikhvand's creations are represented by the esteemed Alternatives Gallery in Rome, run by Rita Marcangelo. This representation provides his work with exposure to an international audience interested in cutting-edge contemporary jewelry design.

His expertise extends beyond individual artistry to production leadership. In 2019, as Production Director and Product Designer at Mindham Fine Jewellery, Sheikhvand played a crucial role in the creation of a platinum brooch featuring a 56.18 ct. hexagonal aquamarine cabochon, accented with kunzites and diamonds. This piece was recognized in the 2019 AGTA Spectrum™ Awards, showcasing Sheikhvand's skills in CAD design, hand fabrication, and finishing techniques.