MEET...
PICHULIK jewellery
PICHULIK is an ethical jewellery workshop based in Cape Town, South Africa. Rooted in Africa and inspired by ancient traditions and mythology, PICHULIK uses the language of African craft and ornamentation to create sculptural accessories that celebrate empowering female narratives. Founder Katherine-Mary Pichulik tells us about PICHULIK.
What inspired the creation of Pichulik?
I studied Fine Arts at Michaelis and trained as a pastry chef. Jewellery started out as a hobby. I loved assembling unlikely combinations of materials and seeing how they could become wearable objects with the ability to capture and represent stories.
Rooted in Africa and inspired by ancient mythology, Pichulik uses the language of African craft to create sculptural jewellery that celebrates empowering female narratives. Each piece is a talisman, handcrafted from recycled rope combined with cast brass and precious stones.
Can you tell us about the creative process behind the designs and the choice of materials?
The inspiration process is meticulous. It starts with something that sparks my interest – an image, a song, a material, a journey. Then there’s a lot of research, particularly into ornamentation, art history and design. I find a protagonist, like writing a novel. Then I put all the components together and play until a collection emerges, then we distil it and tighten it up.
What can you tell us about your brand's strong connection with women?
I’m inspired by the intimate relationship women have with jewellery. It speaks about their travels, their mothers and grandmothers, and the people they love. Pichulik celebrates Africa and sees jewellery and ornamentation as a sacred conduit for healing, community and wisdom.
Can you share an anecdote about an iconic piece or a significant moment for your brand?
I would say that the Shimenawa earrings were a defining moment for me as a designer. They were the centrepiece of the first official collection with my business partner Tracey Chiappini-Young. Her involvement with the brand has changed PICHULIK’s trajectory. I’m really grateful.
“Each piece is a talisman, handcrafted…”.
Where do you see Pichulik in the future?
We’re launching an exciting collaboration this summer and focusing on launching the brand in the US.
“I’m inspired by women’s intimate relationships with jewellery.” “
