Eija Mustonen
Eija Mustonen is a contemporary jewellery artist living and working in Finland. Her work, while rooted in her native Finnish cultural heritage, emphasizes craftsmanship and challenges ornamentation.
What have you rebelled against in the past, and what are you rebelling against now?
I rebel against unnecessary consumption.
Do you need to be a rebel to enjoy your work?
The author must be aware of what they are doing. Through making, I perceive and try to understand the world around me.
Do you use your own work?
Sometimes.
Do you think cutlery can still be improved? If yes, in what way?
As long as we eat real food and not pills, I do believe that new cutlery will be developed. What I can’t say though is if there is a need to invent new cutlery.
What was the inspiration for your Steinbeisser series?
I have made metal mittens in the past. For this purpose I made the mitten bigger and to be more useful for culinary purposes.
Describe your work in 3 words!
Experiment and experience.
What kind of materials do you use and where do you get them from?
In these works I have used silversmith skills and I used metals such as copper, alpaca, pewter and silver. I purchase materials from wholesalers in the metal trade.
What are you working on right now?
I work on issues related to the human body and its immediate environment.
What has been your favourite dinner experience?
The best food experience is to get fresh ingredients directly from nature and make a meal with loved ones and then eat under the open sky.
What excites you about tomorrow?
New day, new experiences.
What are you 3 favourite pieces on Jouw…?
I like the works of many artists, and especially the works by Sophie Hanagarth, Luke Shalan and Nils Hint.