CLUSTER Contemporary Jewellery Fair will be returning for its fifth edition from 13-18th December at Protein Studios, East London, with five days of immersive displays and engaging exhibits from over 120 jewellery artists including Cindy Xinyi Wu, Daiwen Wang, Julie Kleom, and Sophie Bélanger. Ahead of its return, StyleNest sat down with its founder and curator, Ema Marinova…
Can you tell us more about how CLUSTER London started?
Cluster’s idea emerged out of necessity and recognising a gap in the market for a multi-layered professional platform dedicated to emerging artists.
It all began in a small basement in Dalston. I was 22, I had close to no funds, but I was brave and driven by a vision that kept me going. A pivotal moment was the opening of the first exhibition in an underground space in East London. After four days of non-stop work transforming a damp room into a gallery, I was covered in paint and didn’t even have time to change my clothes for the opening night. Despite this, I was determined to create a great experience for the artist I was working with. To my surprise, over 250 people attended, and we sold 18 paintings and drawings. I said to myself, “This is meant to be. I can actually do this.”
I was a young, ambitious curator surrounded by artists through my various jobs, many of whom kept asking the same questions: “How can I exhibit more? Where can I find a like-minded community? How do I learn about the intricacies of being an artist and running a brand?” I wanted to provide solutions and answers to these questions for all creatives.
What’s been your biggest inspiration?
What fuels me on a deeper level is identifying gaps within the traditional art world. My biggest inspiration has been the people I’ve met along the way—their stories, the artists I regularly engage with, and the lack of support for young people in the arts industry and education spaces.
I deeply understand the challenges of being a creative and building a career without guidance. That’s why I’ve made it my personal mission to create opportunities for creatives to learn, exhibit and connect.
Who are the fairs aimed at? Can anyone visit?
The fairs are aimed at everyone—we are all about inclusivity. More specifically, they cater to individuals who love art, have an interest in collecting and supporting emerging talent and those who want to learn and discover new things. Importantly, they’re also for visitors seeking an intimate experience with the arts, including meeting the artists themselves.
I always strive to create fairs, exhibitions and experiences that are open to everyone. My goal is to democratize the arts, break down social barriers, and ensure everyone feels they belong.
What can people expect from the CLUSTER Contemporary Jewellery Fair?
The CLUSTER Contemporary Jewellery Fair is a free-entry event, it will be the perfect opportunity for purchasing gifts and last-minute Christmas presents! But it’s also just a really nice day out and opportunity to see some incredible artists. Rest assured; we will have something for everyone.
The event offers an exciting showcase of global talent, bringing together jewellery designers from diverse backgrounds. Visitors can expect a vibrant display of craftsmanship, featuring an array of styles from bold, eye-catching pieces to intricate and delicate designs.
A key highlights this year is the AI Jewellery Section, where technology meets creativity to push design frontiers. The fair also provides an opportunity to connect with artists, gaining insight into their inspirations and techniques, and a space where you can hang out with your friend. We’re hosting it at Protein Studios, an amazing setting that adds to the dynamic atmosphere, making the fair a must-visit for anyone passionate about jewellery and cutting-edge design. There’ll be music and drinks too!
What are your predicted jewellery trends for next year?
Next year, jewellery trends are set to embrace bold, chunky designs that make a confident statement. These larger-than-life pieces will stand out, reflecting a growing demand for accessories that exude personality and power.
A “vintage revival” will also sweep the industry, with art deco influences and period-style pieces becoming prominent. Geometric patterns, intricate detailing, and the timeless appeal of retro aesthetics will cater to a collective yearning for nostalgic glamour. This trend aligns with modern preferences for jewellery that is both striking and meaningful.
Innovation and sustainability will play a major role as well. Tech-integrated designs, such as 3D-printed jewellery, are poised to revolutionise creativity, enabling the creation of intricate, previously unachievable patterns. Ethical considerations will drive demand for sustainable options, such as lab-grown diamonds and jewellery crafted from recycled materials. Designers are likely to experiment with mixed media, combining metals with fabrics to create fresh textures and innovative looks. Together, these trends highlight a shift towards jewellery that seamlessly blends tradition, technology, and eco-conscious values.
@cluster_contemporaryjewellery
Tickets to CLUSTER Cotemporary Jewellery Fair are free. Please register HERE.