Bianca Chong

We sit down with Bianca, one of our jewellery instructors at Hatton Jewellery Institute, also founder and designer of Answer B. We learn more about her inspirations.

ANSWER B follows a conceptual approach in design, adding a sense of delicacy in her creations. Inspired by the fluidity of natural beings and the structural mechanics of architecture, ANSWER B seeks balance between the two ends of organic and synthetic matters to build poetic jewelleries that flow along the body.

When did you first realise you wanted to be a jewellery designer?
I always loved making small accessories like bracelets and handbags.. During my MA at the London College of Fashion, I became fascinated with metalsmith, discovering all possibilities working with metal. Since then, I continue to learn new metalsmith techniques and create more jewellery pieces.

Tell us about your design style. What makes your design unique in the industry?
My design style is a combination of fluidity on the body and construction within the piece. I always create to compliment the shape of the female body while focusing on the placement of different elements within one piece of jewellery. Each jewellery can be viewed as a mini sculpture which also makes the wearer looks good with confident, I think this defines the uniqueness of my work.

What kind of person wears your jewellery? How do you want them to feel when wearing your jewellery?
Women who understand themselves.. women who realise their imperfections and embrace their flaws. Women who seeks beyond the minimal style. I want women to feel empowered when wearing my jewellery.

As a designer, where do you draw your inspiration from/ what inspires you?
I am always attracted to architecture and landscape and I like to include structures and negative spaces in my work. I am also inspired by all things natural.  I like to recreate silhouettes and bring that fluidity in my jewelleries.

What is your favourite jewellery tool/technique?
I always work with round or square rods to create shapes and solder them together. My favourite tools are pliers and my favourite technique is soldering.

Who are your favourite designers?
For jewellery design, I love KOVA jewels, Anissa Kermiche and Andres Gallardo. I love how the designers use gemstones and interesting elements in jewellery, and how Andres Gallerdos uses his beautifully handcrafted ceramics in his designs.

How do you decide what you want to create?
I usually start with a rough sketch, then will start playing with brass rods and materials to create forms. I will then try to imagine how it looks when I wear the design.. My designs change throughout the process.

When is enough enough?
When a maximalist think it’s time to stop?

Three words that sum up your brand.
Poetic, Ornamental, Authentic.

What is your favourite piece you’ve ever created – and what made it so special?
It’s a clutch composed of 3 different types of wood in natural colours forming an ombre effect. I spent endless days and nights experimenting with the mechanical structure, and after 4 prototypes, I was happy with the results. This piece is exceptionally meaningful to me as it symbolises a learning journey, and I became very pleased with what I achieved.

When not working, what takes up your time… any hobbies?
I started practising yoga and pilates two years ago. Since practicing  I can see myself getting stronger and healthier and there is always something to work and improve on. I also become more aware and appreciative of my surroundings.

Visit ANSWER B: www.answerb.co

Read Bianca's full bio.