In Perth’s ever-changing landscape of jewellery design, Alister Yiap has made a distinct impression in the months since he graduated with a BA in jewellery design at the end of last year. After Alister was named one of STYLEAID’s five emerging designers for 2008, I sat down with the young designer whose fresh vision cannot be overlooked.

Firstly, tell me about your background?

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I’ve always been creative and I love the act of making. I also like sparkly things – Swarovski crystals and diamonds (black ones)!

Why the decision to do both wearable jewellery and amazing couture pieces?

The push to do both wearable jewellery and couture was encouraged in a studio unit under Curtin University’s Bachelor of Arts (Jewellery Design). I felt there was a missing link between commercial jewellery and contemporary and set out to educate the wider community of different jewellery practices. Hence why I have three different lines of jewellery: Commercial, Contemporary and Couture.

How do you see the jewellery landscape in Perth evolving in terms of what is on offer outside of large jewellery stores?

The ever growing number of little boutiques which have been opening around Perth have seen a rise and demand for unique, quirky and innovative jewellery that utilizes alternative materials and found objects. Personally, the movement in Perth has not reached its full potential yet.

How does your jewellery fit into the world of fashion?

My Couture Jewellery is the signature of my personal practice as an artisan – larger scale jewellery made with the intention of gracing the runway and highly desirable for fashion photography.

Is jewellery seasonal like clothing or is it more directional?

Costume jewellery is very seasonal and, dare I say it, outfit based, but when talking about higher end jewellery made from precious metals and semi-precious stones, it is more sentimental and special. Contemporary jewellery tends to be more directional and goes beyond seasons; take a ring given to you by your partner, you’d want to wear it rain, hail or shine.

What is your current story for the coming season’s jewellery range?

The Malachi Collection, being the first collection, sets out to launch myself as a Jewellery designer and to establish a clear brand identity aesthetically and stylistically.

Where would you like to see your range in 5 years time?

I’ve got some ideas as to where I’d like to be, but the industry is so unpredictable! In the future I would love to branch off into accessories such as watches, sunglasses and possibly handbags and shoes, BUT let’s not get ahead of ourselves!

Stockists:

• www.malachialisteryiap.com
• www.shopmoose.com.au

• Katherine Kalaf Gallery
• Shop 1, 30 Jarrad Street
• Cottesloe, WA 6001
• Ph (08) 9383 1492

• Tu
• Shop 9 Shafto Lane
• Perth, WA 6000
• Ph (08) 9322 3288

• Libertine
• Shop 5/595 Beaufort Street
• Mount Lawley, WA 6050
• Ph (08) 9328 171

• Hustle
• 68 High Street
• Fremantle, WA 6160
• Ph (08) 9430 8400