New paper jewellery collection by Catrine Berlatier
Catrine Berlatier is the latest artist to join e.g.etal. Her collection of statement neckpieces is made from intricately folded and weaved paper, old atlas pages and paint to create distinctive, wearable pieces.
Catrine’s unusual practise imbues her work with lightness and delicacy, as well as an unexpected strength and gravitas.
“I work with materials not normally used for jewellery making: packaging paper and envelopes, string, plastic bags, bottles and old books. I take pleasure in transforming these small, ordinary, mundane items into objects of desire,” says Catrine.
Berlatier’s work is informed by a long-lasting interest in the idea of transformation, and of discovering the value hidden in the things we normally throw away. Each piece represents hours of elaborate folding, using a weaving technique Berlatier learned as a child – eventually emerging as long, snaking strands or bold, angular neckpieces.
“Nothing ever remains the same,” says Catrine. “I often play with that idea, transforming materials to a point where they are not easily identifiable, revealing the beauty within.”
Catrine’s journey as an artist has recently come full-circle. After graduating as an Art and Craft teacher (majoring in Metalcraft and Textiles) at Melbourne University in 1991, she practiced and exhibited as a jewellery designer for several years. Then, after a 20 year absence, Catrine returned to her craft full-time in 2012 while completing a bachelor of fine arts (Gold and silversmithing) at RMIT.
