At first sight, Herman Hermsen's objects seem far from spectacular. A necklace made of pieces of tubing, connected with rings. But feel the necklace as it glides over your hand, or place it round your neck and you'll notice something quite different. It has a tangible subtlety and elegance as it caresses the shoulder. The parts and functions are evident in the rings, too: one tube for the finger, the other for the stone. But juxtaposing the two tubes creates a spatial composition that has a sculptural effect, even on this minute scale.

What makes Herman Hermsen's work so surprising - his jewellery and his other pieces - is their utilitarian character. Everything has been thought through and has a reason. With their restrained design, perfect function and finesse of detail, Herman's pieces have become great favourites and potential classics.

Paul Derrez

back