The Jewelry Tutorial Evolution: From Video To Paper

«Don’t use the computer, draw by hand». A clear and valuable concept that, way back in the 1990s, Donatella Versace often repeated to a young Cosimo Vinci, then a member of her creative team for the accessory section. Cosimo, the versatile Italian designer, has made these words the incipit of his new editorial project, a new, exclusive and entirely hand-illustrated manual compiled with the valuable collaboration of fashion illustrator, Manuela Brambatti. The book Disegnare gioielli. Dallo schizzo al rendering professionale (Designing jewelry. From the sketch to professional rendering), published by IKON in Milan and scheduled for release on 10^th September next, is an authentic graphic tutorial which, step by step, teaches the reader how to design a jewelry item from A to Z. «If a kid knows how to draw by hand» says Cosimo, «then he can also draw in 3D.  The book is not just a simple illustrated manual, it is a training course which provides step-by-step explanations on how to move within the creative process. There are no photographs. Instead there are sketches and illustrations supported by accurate descriptions, starting from the color of the gem, thus offering a real didactic tool.»

Having been a Jewelry Design teacher for over 20 years, Cosimo realized that there was no specific tool on the market for training young creative artists. He therefore had the idea of going back to the classic method by creating a book that shows the various steps to take towards obtaining perfect shapes, colors and light, essential elements in the jewelry designing phase. Moreover, the last chapters are a useful guide to ergonomics, a fundamental study for the correct interaction between creation and wearability, and on the world of men’s jewelry, a sector that is developing fast. Additionally, in order to provide a more complete training course, the book is enriched by brief anecdotes edited by Alessandra Possamai. Archeologist and art historian, she tells the story of some unique items, valid examples of artistic styles that safeguard the invaluable fascination of timeless elegance. Translated into several languages, the book is meeting with excellent feedback, so much so that it aroused the interest of the Spanish publisher. It is the first of two books (the second is due to come out next year) underlining the value of creativity expressed through a fine and precise manual work.