Anat Kaplan
Anat Kaplan is the artist behind the independent jewelry brand Anouk Jewelry, which we are proud to represent at Ruby Mardi.
Anat holds an MA and teaching diploma in Art History, lives in Toronto’s Wychwood neighbourhood and can often be found sorting aquamarines to the tune of Bruni or Debussy while sipping mint tea!
But before she launched her own jewelry brand and started playing with gemstones, Anat Kaplan studied, appraised, curated, taught, and created various forms of art all on the road to finding the place her spirit truly sings. You guessed right; jewelry design.
We're happy to present to you a short interview in which you'll learn about what inspires Anat, what she loves and get a glimpse of who she is.
Who are the artists you love the most, who inspire you or accompany you? Do they influence your work, and if so, in what way?
In visual arts, the French symbolist Odilon Redon is my favorite artist of all time. I love the feeling of mystery, the textures he creates with paint, his ethereal use of colour and his suggestive narratives.
In jewelry, Art Nouveau's René Lalique is a timeless inspiration for me! I love his flowing lines and nature-inspired motifs.
Do you have any strategies for overcoming these obstacles?
When I get stuck, I step away and do something else that fulfills or inspires me. It could be going for a nature hike, going out dancing or meeting soulful friends. Any of these activities can bring me back into alignment and help breathe new energy into the creative process.
If you could be reincarnated as a flower, which one would you choose and why?
I think I'd be reincarnated as an orchid. I identify with this beautiful and sensitive flower. It is delicate yet resilient and with proper care, love, and nurturing it blooms endlessly!
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
I'd have to say chocolate, and gluten-free pastries :)
If you could meet one person from history, who would it be and why?
I don't know if personal history counts, but I would love to have had more quality time with my grandmother. She was an aesthete, had an affinity for beauty and was a huge inspiration for my creative and personal journey. I wish we could have one more conversation about her life as I was too young when she passed away.
Is there a movie or music band you could watch on repeat and never tire of?
The Beatles seem pretty timeless!
I've watched the Three Colours trilogy by Krzysztof Kieślowski many times and each time I find something new that speaks to me.
My favourite animated movie is Moana, I love the depiction of water and nature! The story is inspiring and its soundtrack is wonderful.
Finally, what is your favorite museum (worldwide)?
There are a lot of museums I love.
The Met is endless and I could spend long days there and never get tired. Or Tate Britain in London, where I could stare at my beloved Pre-Rafaelites.
Thank you for sharing a little of yourself with us, Anat!
