Dung beetles. It might seem like an unlikely creature to have inspired a unique and opulent jewellery range, but Anna Rosholt is one of those artists who are able to open your eyes to the beauty in the simplest of things. She has turned a humble creature into a profound symbol of African luxury, and keeps surprising with her eye for extravagance and African beauty.
One of the KAMERS & Absa Incub8 young entrepreneurs, Anna designs and manufactures jewellery from a studio in Woodstock in Cape Town, working mostly with silver, but also with gold and platinum for commission work such as engagement rings and wedding pieces. Her Beetle Collection is her main range and was launched last year at Design Indaba. Behind the range there is a wonderful story with old and even ancient roots.
When asked what inspired this peculiar and strikingly beautiful range of jewellery, Anna said, “My Grandmother was the main inspiration for my Beetle range. She always wore gorgeous Scarab jewellery collected on her travels to Egypt. I wanted my range to be as beautiful and striking as these beetles, and to celebrate them as symbols of African luxury.”
Anna’s newest range is ready to be released at KAMERS this week. “My next range is all about rhinos,” she says.
“It is something I’ve been working on for a while and am so excited to share! This is a cause that is very close to my heart and I hope to use the collection to help raise awareness of rhino poaching. The proceeds of each piece of jewellery sold will be donated to the cause.”
It comes as no surprise when Anna says, “I am obsessed with African inspired design. I’ve never been a plain and simple kind of person – I love bright, daring colours and imagery, bold patterns and rich, earthy textures!” This contemporary artist shows a true love both for the wonders of the African continent, as well as for inventive and innovative design. It is a delightful combination, and is sure to add a unique flavour to KAMERS Cape Town 1-5 June – as it has to the KAMERS Online Marketplace. Be sure to pay a visit.
UPDATE: Anna received the KAMERS Makers Award for Best Young Entrepreneur at KAMERS 2016 Cape Town. Congrats, Anna! She will be back at KAMERS/Makers Joburg, 28 Sept – 2 Oct.
Well done to Annabel! Award TRULY deserved!!