IMPERFECT SHAPES
Cluster Contemporary Jewellery Exhibitor | December 2024
Francesca Bonanno, the creator of Imperfect Shapes, is a private and introspective individual, though her creativity is as powerful and untamed as an erupting volcano. Born in Verona, Italy—a city steeped in ancient beauty—she grew up surrounded by an aesthetic that has profoundly influenced her life and artistic choices.
Her parents instilled in her a love for travel from a young age, nurturing her creative spirit with exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives. Francesca studied Oriental Languages and Literature in Venice, culminating her studies with a dissertation exploring the intersection of art and religion.
Imperfect Shapes embodies Francesca’s vision of beauty, balance, and harmony, crafting meaningful objects that evoke new sensations and create lasting memories. She remains true to herself and her distinctive style, working independently of fleeting trends.
Her primary inspirations come from nature and architecture, filtered through the lens of the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the passage of time. This philosophy is reflected in her preference for leaving materials seemingly raw, imbuing each piece with an unfinished yet captivating charm. Every creation is handcrafted, unique, and rich with micro-details that set it apart—a subtle refinement that is never overly polished but always effortlessly chic.
Francesca approaches her craft with a clear vision, which she brings to life through an instinctive and intuitive creative process. She takes pride in ensuring her jewellery stands out as one-of-a-kind, iconic pieces that are both distinctive and unforgettable.
WORK AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE SOON
After years working in a completely unrelated field within the family business, Francesca felt the need for a transformative change—a breath of fresh air for her creativity. This led to the birth of Imperfect Shapes, her personal project and a true (r)evolution. She honed her craft in Vicenza, training in bench metalworking and wax sculpting, embarking on this exciting new chapter of her life.
As her vision evolved, Francesca discovered two seemingly contrasting yet deeply complementary sources of inspiration: nature and architecture. Her instinctive approach to creativity drives her to constantly seek out details in her surroundings that imbue her jewellery with a unique and captivating charm.