FK chats to Anna, the creator behind beautiful keepsake jewellery label, 32.4!
Tell us about your label 32.4 and what the concept is behind it?
32.4 is handcrafted and limited edition jewellery, primarily made out of sterling silver and brass with silver chain. To me jewellery is like a keepsake, it reminds you of something or someone and when you wear it you think of that, it should make you feel special. There is so much jewellery out there already – I don’t want 32.4 pieces to be mass produced, I want them to all be unique and the wearer to feel special and treasure them. Most of the pieces are limited runs, but some are complete one-off’s.
What is your background and how did you started working with jewellery?
My background is in graphic design however I have always been a ‘maker’ of some sorts. After having to take some time off from work for health reasons last year I wanted to get back into ‘making’. I enrolled in an 8 week course in Jewellery production and making where I bought my first amount of silver – 32.4 grams. Then it all seemed to click into place with 32.4 I get to do everything I love, I make and design the jewellery as well as all the graphic design and digital presence behind the brand. In March this year I quit my full-time job as a designer and haven’t looked back since!
How has your creative style developed over time? and what inspires your work?
I am always learning and discovering new techniques so my style is constantly evolving – I am now doing some more finer pieces, however I always try stay true to my original style and not get swayed by trends. Generally inspiration comes from everywhere but I am inspired a lot by shapes and how they work together and with the body. I self teach with a lot of trial and error, so many of the pieces come to life from this process. Sometimes as I start making a piece it morphs into something else or springs an idea for another piece.
What do you love about living in Sydney?
I am originally from Brisbane – I moved to Sydney nearly 7 years ago and am absolutely in love with it – mostly the beaches, harbour and the vibe of it.
What challenges have you faced starting your own label, and what are some things you love about it?
The hardest thing at the moment has been balancing full time freelance design work with 32.4 – it’s like splitting your brain and your time. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to do 32.4 full time! As for loves.. All of it! I feel very lucky to love doing something so much- even if I won the lotto I’d still do it. The reward and excitement of people wearing and treasuring your pieces is pretty amazing.
What aspirations do you have for your label in the future?
I have a lot of plans for 32.4, my head is constantly buzzing, but I am learning to be patient! My next step is to really build on the collection and aesthetic. I would love to work on 32.4 full-time and to expand and have the jewellery stocked in a few boutique stores. I am also hoping to have a gallery evening/pop-up store to launch a range of one off pieces.
