Mikuti
Mikuti is the direct expression of designer and founder, Erika Freund, to bridge the unlikely.
Milena Zu
The MILENA ZU collection combines colorful silk yarn, tiny crystals and metallic mesh, to produce a collection of fine jewelry entirely woven by hand. Inspired by the alchemical beauty of chaos, the brand is focused on ethically sourced materials and low-impact environmentally conscious practices by avoiding the use of harmful chemicals.
The silver and gold metal coatings are executed by hand on an individual basis, just as it was in the ancient Egypt. Originating in the time of incense trading, this ancient crochet technique migrated from Gujarat, through India to Indonesia.
Italian born designer Milena, was born into the family tradition of art and craft. Migrating to Bali, saw her creative vision take formation, where she observed skillful Balinese craftsmen work with copper, brass, silver and pure gold. Melting the metals in a clay pot, craftsmen pull the solidifying metal through tiny holes to create several meters of metal wire.
The fine wire is then crocheted, following mathematical calculations in to achieve the shape for each design. Using a simple crochet hook, the jewelry is hand crocheted, work that cannot be duplicated by machine.
Inspired by nature in all its forms, and especially endangered wildlife, Milena’s latest collection is called WILD, and features leopard, zebra and cheetah patterns entirely made from tiny stitched crystals. The tiny crystals flow and move on the mesh, mimicking the movement of the fur. The collection achieves a delicacy that belays the strength of materials used, and a sensitivity and beauty that is at times other worldly.
Website: www.milenazu.com
Purchase: https://boticca.com/milenazu
