Pilar Agueci’s jewellery is cool and clean, fresh and modern. I love the way she takes simple shapes and lines and turns them into something that seems timeless but so right now.
I had the pleasure of meeting Pilar, who is from Montreal, in person at Puces Pop and she is a delight. Warm and inspiring, I can see how her jewellery line is such a success.
Pilar has generously agreed to answer all my questions. I was both surprised by some of the responses (the inspiration behind her latest line) and totally touched by why she continues to work so hard (hint: she’s a mom).
Read on for Pilar’s story:
Tell me a bit about the inspiration for your latest line of jewelry.
In contrast to the line of jewellery, there is a tremendous amount of detail and conception that goes into a creating a body of work. Although these pieces present themselves as simple, the background behind that simplicity is very detailed. As a creative person, honing in on what elements to carry through to the final collection can be a challenge. In my second series of jewellery, Euclide, I streamlined my inspirations into their basic elements. I asked myself what I saw in my everyday journey? How did these simple elements manifest themselves in shapes, lines and intersecting points? How could I translate these visual references into a collection of jewellery? Euclide alligns itself with how I was feeling last year being pregnant and now as a new mother. I wanted to create a pieces that were simple, beautiful and easy for everyone to wear.
Who do you see wearing your jewelry?
I work towards creating pieces that are timeless and can be worn by any type of person. When designing a collection I think about my potential clients and an efficient use of materials and time. I try to work with the materials in such a way to showcase their beauty while keeping their cost as low as possible. I think of my work not as niche, but as something for everyone. I’d like to see a variety of people wearing my jewellery!
Where do I see my business in the future? What is my goal?
I’ve been working in the industry for over 10 years. I graduated knowing it was going to take time and commitment to reach a point where I felt successful. Colleagues of mine have said it takes 10,000 hours at the bench before you’re a professional. 10,000! I’ve been fortunate enough to have some great educational and professional experiences that have defined how I see my career unfolding. I want to continue making jewellery creating pieces that become memories and symbols. I want to make pieces that tell stories of love and are inspired by passion. I would like to continue working towards building the custom jewellery aspect of my business as this can be the most personally rewarding. I love the opportunity to create special pieces whether it be using new materials, or recycling something old into a new treasure.
You recently became a mother. What has it been like trying to find a way to continue your professional career with a baby in tow?
Well, it’s been interesting! Before I had Olivia I asked myself what kind of mother I wanted to be. I’m a confessed workaholic! It’s something I love doing and I set high goals for myself. I really wondered how I was going to do both, and well. At the beginning it was a little dance; each taking turns, highs and lows, some rough patches, and then it became smoother. For me, being a mother is not just about satifying her immediate needs, but about teaching by example; how to set your own goals, choose your own path and pursue your dreams. Now, I have no choice but to succeed.
A huge thanks to Pilar for answering all my questions!
Please check out her website, Facebook Page, Twitter and Instagram.
(Photo credits – Anthony McLean for the single jewellery shots, Sarah-Emily St Gelais for the model shots and Lela Gomez for the family portrait)
You may also like to read about jewellers Maksym, PAUZE atelier, and Salvage Jewelry Co. I’m also a fan of Jenny Bird and Coral and Cloud.
Here are some of my favourite stud earrings and my way to wear dress up a simple t-shirt (one of my top posts!)
Michelle Little
Writer & Photographer
