Degree Show 2026
Jia Bansal
BA Art and Design
“Re-wearing the Body” explores processes of change, structure and decay through a floral (real and beaded) arch installation in which 5 brooches are displayed. Each brooch is formed from a body cast, embossed with patterns of architecture and embellished by inspiration of nature. Accompanied by two nature-inspired sculptural body-beading pieces as well as photography showcasing both the brooches and beading being worn.
The “Re-wearing the Body” brooch collection is made to not be instantly recognisable as jewellery items, nor as body elements. The brooches ought to be their own sculptural entities as well as part of the floral arch. Accompanying photography enhances the change that occurs when an object is related to the body.
Close ups of the “Re-wearing the Body” installation. The brooch is a structural item, and unlike other jewellery it is not designed for a specific part of the body. My brooches contrast this fact by being elements of the body themselves, which when worn become a fragmented statement on instability and change.
“Jewellery for feeling majestic” and “Jewellery for feeling mysterious (for a water spirit)”. These are conceptual jewellery pieces inspired by the heart and veins and bodies of water, respectively. The wearer will feel as the title claims when wearing these pieces: to wear this work is to welcome change, inspired by nature.