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Joey Tusler           

In my work I explored the theme of hip-hop culture and the jewellery that defines it as well as the theme of my family history and culture surrounding Christianity and my middle eastern heritage. I focused on creating a piece which captured hip hop culture and express that in a way that is easily identifiable to the average viewer. The theme of my culture and history is more loosely tied in with the final presentation of the artwork being presented with the flowers giving a more renaissance aesthetic to the work, this ties in with classic Arabic artwork and paintings. I wanted to explore hip-hop culture and one side it's very well known for is it's flashy jewellery with diamond encrusted chains and pendants being a staple in the scene, gold teeth or grills have been popular since the 90s but have since found their way into pop culture in a huge way. Grills for me summarise hip-hop culture in one item of jewellery and are an easy give away to people in this subculture. Using jewellery as my medium I work to represent the meeting of fashion and culture, bringing my own individuality and stylistic flavour to the work.