Exclusively using recycled metals and stones sourced from African gem cutters, jewellery artist and designer-maker Emefa Cole forges distinctive pieces of body adornment that are bold yet quiet, sculptural yet flowing, tactile yet tangible, luxurious yet subversive.
Cole moved to London from Sunyani, Ghana at just age 12, and went on to become the V&A museum's inaugural curator of diaspora jewellery – here, in conversation with Crafts editor Debika Ray, she talks more in depth about her life and illustrious creative career.
This panel discussion was the second of two talks that Crafts magazine hosted during the 2023 edition of Collect, a three-day fair showcasing exceptional work by artist-makers from across the globe.
Header image: Emefa Cole, 2020. Photo: Casey Moore