Therese Hilbert, brooch, 2018, patinated silver, laquer
Volcanoes are deeply fascinating to Therese Hilbert, because of their specific cloak-like shape that enfolds deep unruly craters, and because of their dangerous unpredictability and irrepressibility. They are connected to the colours red – for fire, yellow – for sulphur, and the black of congealed lava, embedded in many shades of grey. Over the years Therese visited many volcanoes. She brought rocks she found, especially obsidian (volcanic glass), back home with her, to work them into jewellery. They are rough remnants from the dynamic interior of the earth, that contrast with her strict, smooth jewellery pieces and the soft sheen of patinated silver. Like metaphors for the powers and energies that accompany, push and control us.