Intent  The intent of this project was to create a provocative, conceptual collection of jewelry, designed to communicate different ways that ideas have power over the individual, and how pre-existing beliefs influence how people in turn give power to ideas. This collection, exhibited at the Koldinghus “Splendor of Power” exhibit, provokes conversation about ideas, power, and people’s behavior.

Concept  The power of the future derives not from physical wealth nor social status, but from the ideas of individuals and reactions to shared ideas. Past experiences, biases, and opinions determine the reactions when faced with the power of those shared ideas. A future where the power of ideas dominates is not necessarily beautiful, nor is it ugly. The outcome and its impact is determined by how individuals respond.

Process  These designs were developed keeping in mind the experience of the individual when confronted with ideas. Three responses were chosen to demonstrate a variety of experiences. It was necessary to attempt to define and understand the the past, present, and future of power, and quick prototyping and rough sketching helped to better tailor the design to the human experience and perceptions.