Conversations with an Artist: Variance Objects
Nicole Rimedio, the artist, and Scott Zankman, the operations, are the duo behind Variance Objects, the cutting edge jewelry line with an eye on celebrating raw stones and natural forms. We fell in love with the natural beauty of the finest rough gems and organic settings, many using 14k gold stacked with a mix of oxidized sterling silver with melted blends of 14-24k golds. A trained architect, Nicole’s collection is edgy and elegant, inspired by rediscovery of ancient and antique jewelry. They fabricate everything so there is no duplication, which means each is one-of-a-kind! The veritable elegance meets bad-assery, the claws, the stunning colors, the mixed metals–we had to have them for you in the shop.
Describe the moment you realized art fed your soul.
I was 10 years old and having dinner with my parents and they were interrogating me about what I wanted to do with my life. I said I wanted a jewelry store and to make jewelry. They said I should probably be an orthopedic surgeon instead because in their minds it was more professional but still artistic. But to be fair, they always encouraged me artistically–they saw it more as a hobby.
What themes do you pursue in your art?
I'm looking to give space for the unexpected and not control the process too much that the magic can't get in.
Tell us about what influences the direction for your jewelry collection.
The materials inform the aesthetic. Every stone is different which means they all inspire uniquely. With the metals, we have our processes, but we let them evolve so new pieces happen as we progress forward.
How has your work developed over time?
I have to say from my perspective it's gotten better. I see it as more refined. This may be due to the fact that the quality of our stones has increased significantly.
What’s the most indispensable item in your studio?
Pliers
Do you collect anything?
I like old stuff. Vintage clothing and antique jewelry.
What’s the most inspiring thing you’ve seen, read, watched or listened to recently?
I heard a quote recently, "The boat must be in the water but the water shouldn't get in the boat".
What advice would you give to your younger self about your artistic journey?
Make your own path.
A passion for sourcing the finest gem specimens, which they hand cut, capturing the nature of each stone, preserving its inherent textures, color patterns, and light qualities–Variance Objects designs eye candy... For your ears with their large claw settings and for your fingers and wrists with their signature mixed precious metal bands and cuffs. Made of 14-24k yellow, rose and white gold embedded into oxidized sterling silver, each setting is unique to the stone, giving you a one-of-a-kind look. Come check out the collection we have in the shop!
~ Bonnie & Jeffrey
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hello@poetandthebench.com | 415.569.4383 | 11 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941