Goldiie: Caribbean Artist Crafting Handcrafted Jewelry and Accessories
Jewelry / Accessories and objects designer
While I was living in Amsterdam, - I say "was" because I am now back in Paris and desperately missing Amsterdam - I fell in love with the Bygoldiie label.
As I wanted a specific earring, I decided to contact the owner, Goldiie, before she left on a holiday in her native Curaçao, we met and chatted. I was shocked to find out how young she was, I was expecting someone much older as her creative process is very much mature.
As you know, here at The Blackletter we are a celebration of the richness of the black community through literature, art and the sharing of experiences but today I want to delve into the creative world of Goldiie.
She is a multi-disciplinary artist and the visionary behind Bygoldiie, a brand dedicated to creating unique, hand-crafted accessories and objects. As a native of the vibrant Caribbean islands of Bonaire and Curaçao and now a resident of the Netherlands, Goldiie's work is a testament to the diverse influences of her heritage and environment.
Her commitment to sustainability and responsible
practices is reflected in Bygoldiie's 'Blooming Responsibly' strategy, which guides every aspect of the brand's production process, from material selection to waste reduction and community education.
Goldiie's creative process is a dynamic interplay of culture, design, art and music, rooted in a deep appreciation of the stories and voices that shape her world.
- Your journey from the Caribbean to the Netherlands must have been quite transformative. How has this transition influenced your creative process and the work you produce today?
This transition has had a positive impact on me. Since moving here, I've been delving deeper into photography and experimenting with design - jewelry. I believe the reason I didn't explore this fully back home is twofold: firstly, I come from a family without a strong creative background, and secondly, on the island, art isn't typically seen as a viable career but rather as a hobby. Now, living here, I've gained a new perspective on home and its significance to me.
- By Goldiie is known for its unique, handmade accessories and objects. Could you tell us a little about the inspiration behind your brand and the story of its creation?
The core inspiration behind my brand originates from the remarkable women in my family, profoundly shaping my perception of beauty.
Growing up surrounded by a diverse spectrum of women, including close relatives and family friends, significantly influenced my understanding of aesthetics.
During my time in Bonaire, the weekly visit to the hair salon became a cherished ritual, bringing a comforting rhythm to my life. This ritual reflects the essence I strive to instill in others when they wear my creations—I want them to feel the same beauty and empowerment I experienced after each salon visit.
Captivated by the inherent allure of flowers, I began exploring their integration into my artistic pursuits. By deconstructing and reconstructing flowers into earrings, I aim to convey a modern interpretation of beauty. Additionally, these earrings serve as a homage to the extraordinary women in my family, whose wisdom has profoundly shaped my appreciation for beauty.
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Literature indeed shapes a creative journey. Even though I'm not a big reader, I love books. I prefer audiobooks over reading.Audio content and interviews, such as those by Bell Hooks, significantly impact my work, particularly in broadening my perspective on various subjects.
Recently, I delved into "Don't Touch My Hair" by Emma Dabiri. I was prompted to explore this book based on a recommendation and my desire to gain insights into hair and diverse women's perspectives for my photo series on texture.
I've been actively engaging with Cassandra Press by Kandi Williams. Recently, I purchased the "Reader on Cannibalism, Blackface, and Minstrelsy."
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As a black artist and entrepreneur from the Caribbean, specifically from Bonaire and Curaçao, I'm paving a unique path. There aren't many individuals like me out here pursuing what I'm doing. My goal is to offer a fresh perspective on art and design. Despite not attending art school, I am a self-taught artist. I want people to remember that with determination, you can achieve anything. No educational institution or person can hinder your potential.
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Goldiie's dedication to sustainability shines through in Bygoldiie's 'Blooming Responsibly' strategy. In today's world, where environmental consciousness is paramount, Bygoldiie's sustainable practices convey a powerful message to our audience and the broader community.
Through our commitment to sustainability, we aim to inspire others to prioritize environmental responsibility in their daily lives. By incorporating sustainable practices into our brand, we hope to encourage a shift towards more eco-friendly consumer habits and contribute to the collective effort in protecting our planet for future generations. Our message is one of empowerment, demonstrating that businesses can thrive while also prioritizing environmental stewardship.