We recently connected with Rachel Chung and have shared our conversation below.
Rachel, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
Sometimes, working in the creative industry can lead to burnout and a feeling of idea fatigue. However, I always try to keep an open mind, staying receptive to the world around me. I let new experiences, stories, and even everyday surroundings inspire me just like my genderless jewellery collection – REVOLT ELEGANTLY. This collection was inspired by the new generation started to challenge traditional gender stereotypes, I wanted to create pieces that are designed for everyone. Jewellery isn’t just for women.
Whenever a spontaneous idea strikes, I immediately jot it down in my sketchbook—or sometimes even on my phone. This way, I can always revisit and refine those concepts later.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
“Jewellery Is a Silent Storyteller”
Reeve Conte believes that jewellery is not just an aesthetic piece, but a medium for conveying stories and messages. It acts like a thread that weaves together and connects different narratives through the form of jewellery.
Our mission is to create pieces that strengthen the bond between the giver, the receiver, and the wearer — making each item a unique expression of a personal journey.
Most of our jewellery is crafted to serve multiple functions, offering the wearer the versatility of different looks from a single item. By using the same amount of material to create multiple styles, our designs challenge the fast-fashion cycle, delivering excitement and variety without encouraging constant consumption. This approach promotes both sustainability and affordability.
If you’re interested in viewing our new pieces in person, please visit us at the Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair in Newcastle, from 20–22 June. Follow us on Instagram for more updates and details!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three most important qualities that have had the greatest impact on my jewellery-making journey are being willing to learn, being brave, and being fun!
“Being willing to learn” has kept me open to new techniques and insights from experts. No one can master everything, so it’s incredibly fulfilling to learn from people with diverse experiences and backgrounds, which has been essential in enhancing my skills.
“Being brave” means just that: don’t be afraid. Seek out opportunities, take risks, and embrace the chance to learn from others. This courage has been key to expanding my horizons.
“Being fun” is the driving force behind starting my business. Long days spent working on similar tasks require a deep passion for what you’re creating. I could spend hours, non-stop, making jewellery because it’s something I truly love!
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
It’s definitely better to go all in on your strengths rather than trying to be more well-rounded. I believe that if you master your strengths, you will stand out from the crowd with the unique skills you possess. However, if you try to be well-rounded in different areas, you may end up blending in with everyone else.
I grew up in an Asian background, where people always expected me to be good at languages, sciences and everything else. Luckily, my parents supported me and understood that my passion was in design and art from a young age. At 13 years old, I started selling my handmade bracelets at craft markets. I went on to attend art school and pursue a jewellery degree to equip myself, actively creating pieces for exhibitions. By now, I’m very lucky to have accumulated diverse experiences and skills.
I can’t imagine where I would be now if I had tried to be well-rounded. I don’t think I would have excelled in anything.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.reeveconte.com/
- Instagram: Reeve.conte
Image Credits
Photographer: Pheobe Lock
Male Model: Luigi Caudullo
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