Meet the Maker - Josef Koppmann

This week we have a Q&A session with Josef Koppmann for our latest 'Meet the Maker'. Having studied at the Arts and Crafts College in Vienna, Josef set up his own studio in London and opened the OXO Tower showroom in 2008. Josef’s sculptural and geometric forms are predominately made in sterling silver with 24 carat gold overlay, fused together by using traditional techniques.

Josefs' rings for the exhibition are characterised by show-stopping, square-cut semi-precious stones, asymmetrically set in brushed silver. These sit alongside the set of 'house' rings that combine crisp angular edges with twinkling brilliant cut diamonds and look great stacked together!

When did you start creating jewellery?

 "At a very young age I was always fascinated how one can shape hard metal into intricate forms"

Who inspires you the most?

Mario Pinton, Giampaolo Babetto, Teachers of The Padwa School in Italy

What was the inspiration for the rings in the exhibition?

Modern Architecture especially brutalist buildings. 

The examples shown above feature works by architects Georges Adilon (left) and Nuru Karim (right).

Please can you tell us a bit about your creative process? 

"Creative process sometimes involves model making but it’s generally working things out in silver as I go along. All my work is made using time honored gold and silver smithing techniques, Joining Silver with pure gold either by soldering or fusing, forming and constructing in precious metals as well as stone setting."

What is your favourite piece that you’ve ever made?

"It is impossible to choose one piece as they are all my favourites for different reasons."

Finally, for fun, what would be your dream piece to make or person to make for?

"Bjork."