Sarah & sebastian
'THIS IS NICE’ SPEAKS WITH SARAH MUNRO & ROBERT SEBASTIAN GRYNKOFKI, FOUNDERS OF SARAH & SEBASTIAN, ABOUT THEIR NEWEST COLLECTION, SEASHELL RESONANCE
‘This is nice’: Congratulations on Seashell Resonance, your latest collection at Sarah & Sebastian. Can you tell us a bit about this collection?
Sarah: Another collection designed in lockdown, and inspired by my daily ocean swims, Seashell Resonance is based on a simple concept with successful execution. We looked at the form of the shell and deconstructed its contours, and really pushed the envelope in terms of experimenting with three-dimensional forms. Sculpted in silver, 10k yellow and white gold, designs are derived from the likeness of a shell with the inclusion of intricate diamond details, to abstract forms that have a visceral presence.
‘TIN’: A recurring inspiration of your collections has been the ocean. What is it about the ocean that keeps you coming back to it time and time again?
Sarah: For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been passionate about the ocean. As a recreational diver, the ocean is a constant source of inspiration. I find a sense of renewal after every dive. This inspires me to design and create jewellery, and in my own way, to show appreciation and homage. I like to imagine that every SARAH & SEBASTIAN client will attribute their own meaning to our jewellery, considering their own personal connection to the ocean, memories and sentimentality.
FAST FAVOURITES
‘TIN’: Piece of jewellery to design?
Sarah: Experimental ear pieces
Robert: Mechanisms and moving parts
‘TIN’: International designer?
Sarah: Sabine Marcelis
Robert: Demna Gvasalia
‘TIN’: Australian designer?
Sarah: Gaawaa Miyay (Lucy Simpson)
Robert: Stanislava Pinchuk
‘TIN’: Quote?
Sarah: Make your own momentum.
Robert: When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favour.
‘TIN’: Collection you’ve designed?
Sarah: I love them all!
Robert: Seashell Resonance
‘TIN’: Way to celebrate?
Sarah: Oysters and champagne in Narooma
Robert: Vintage car joy rides
Sarah’s favourite Australian designer, Gaawaa Miyay by Lucy Simpson
Robert’s favourite Australian designer, Stanislava Pinchuk
‘Tin’: The pieces in this collection range from full shells to the more abstract “skeletal” pieces that are my personal favourite. They remind me of the shells you find that aren’t perfect but are still so beautiful. Do you have a favourite piece or style from this collection?
Sarah: I have so many favourites! Already a part of my personal collection, I would say my favourites are our Auger pieces. Particularly the Auger Earring and Auger Necklace. What I love about the necklace is the kinetic nature of the design and the movement created by the discreet hinged connections. Inspired by conical shells our Auger pieces feature a skeletal aesthetic, almost resulting in coral, shell-like sculptures. All pieces from this style are available in yellow gold and silver; a perfect opportunity to mix metals and bring that into your styling.
Robert: My favourite pieces from this collection are our Diamond Column styles. An opportunity to innovate, I enjoyed building the mechanisms by working with a different approach to creating seamless, almost invisible, findings. A recurring theme in this collection, the skeletal aesthetic is a signature of these pieces; simple yet with all the intricacy in the details. On closer examination, you’re able to see tiny diamonds carefully set on each of the columns. We always consider every single way or angle a piece can be looked at.
‘tin’: Can you give us a bit of insight into what you’re currently working on?
Robert: A new addition to our SARAH & SEBASTIAN signature sliders, we’re excited to launch Birthstone Sliders in time for Mother’s Day, available at our Mosman and Armadale stores, and MECCA Flagship Sydney. Featuring a precious gemstone corresponding to your birth month, each stone has a unique meaning and significance. Handcrafted in 10-karat gold and set with emerald, opal and more, we think they’re the perfect addition to our Soldered service; pieces to treasure forever.
You can shop SARAH & SEBASTIANS NEWEST COLLECTION, SEASHELL RESONANCE HERE