Kavya Potluri

For founder of the eponymous label Kavya Potluri, jewellery design happened by accident. While she was always interested in garments while growing up, she would always find herself playing around with beads and threads which eventually led her to her field.  With a steady focus on craftsmanship and producing everything in house, the studio has only grown and established its unique language with its experimental pieces akin to none. Kavya explains, ‘Sometimes, unexpected paths can lead us to our true passions and talents and I thank my mother for pushing me into this field as she witnessed all my interests as a child. At 29, I still consider myself the same 8-year-old child who was curious about everything around her. I think maintaining that innocence and childlike spirit brings a lot of joy and authenticity to my creative endeavors. Embracing that innocence keeps my creativity alive and I think it adds a unique touch to my creations.’ The designer lets us in on her process and more.

What motivated you to start your own label and what is it that the label stands for?
It can be challenging to work under someone else’s vision and face criticism which restricts my artistic expression. Starting my own venture was truly a courageous step towards creating a space where I could fully express myself with freedom and authenticity. My label, with its values of constant change, fun, and not taking things too seriously, reflects a refreshing and vibrant approach to life. Embracing adaptability is a valuable quality that allows me to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of my creative journey. By building my brand, I’ve created a platform to fully embrace my artistic vision and share it with the world.

There’s a certain element of the avant-garde present in your designs, where do you usually draw inspiration from?
I expose myself to different creative expressions which can ignite fresh ideas and unique perspectives. I delve into various art forms such as painting, sculptures, architecture, fashion, and even performance art. For me, inspiration can strike very unexpectedly. I stay open to new experiences, stay curious and continue exploring different realms of art and design.

Take us through your creative process.
I scribble a lot in my sketchbook. It is where an idea starts for me. For me, it is a great way to unleash my creativity and explore new ideas freely. It allows me to express myself without constraints and can often lead to unexpected and exciting design concepts. I also do a lot of sampling in my studio. I take a lot of risks during the sampling process which can lead to groundbreaking outcomes. This process helps me step outside my comfort zone and pushes me to work with unconventional materials, techniques and design elements. It helps me open up to new possibilities and can uncover a fresh direction for my work. Embracing this adventurous mindset fuels my creative process and contributes to the unique and innovative nature of my designs. At work, this is how I embrace my journey of exploration.

Lastly, what's coming up next?
I’m currently working on a top-secret project to create jewelry that can make people levitate. So, If you see anyone floating around wearing my designs, you know it’s working.