Originally from Israel, Varshay started out painting before heading for New York and ultimately building an impressive career in jewelry making. His experiences led him to the world of high fashion, where he made bold accessory pieces for the seasonal collections of Valentino and Donna Karan in the 1980s. The 1990s brought Varshay to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he next channeled his creative energy into designing contemporary belt buckles. Varshay currently focuses on teaching others and designing jewelry with limited runs and the finest materials in a range of styles. “I believe the past is what fuels the forward-looking art scene,” says the artist, who recently created a collection inspired by Frida Kahlo.
I often sketch when I want to record an idea, visualize a concept, or when I am contemplating a mechanically challenging design. I prefer using parchment paper and 0.5mm mechanical pencils. When they are not available, I improvise with whatever is at hand.
I usually sketch when I enter into the designing phase of a new collection. Sketching is a relatively easy first step in determining the viability of a design. Sketching is also essential when I am teaching. It is a very powerful communication tool when I have to do a presentation related to a process or an object for my students.
A sketch is the first draft in the visualization and planning of a three-dimensional work, therefore an essential part in the evolution of the work. It is the part of the process where anything is possible, and then the actual executing of the piece is where the challenges — and occasionally, limitations — appear.
When I sketch, I feel very focused and grounded — completely absorbed in the process. I think about capturing the essence of my vision and how it will translate into a three-dimensional object.
In my finished work, I try to remain as close as possible to my original sketch. I also allow the natural flow to shape my moves — or the “dance,” as I like to describe these processes — when I am engaged in sculpting a three-dimensional object, especially when the subject is more organic in nature. When the subject is more mechanical in nature, it is essential to stay connected to the initial plan.
Sketching for me is an articulation and understanding of the physical structure of our world. It forces the close observation of our natural surroundings and the interpretation that can be derived from it.
Sketching is a relatively easy first step in deter mining the viability of a design.