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"Shrimps" Earrings: A Fusion of Marine Inspiration, Embroidery, and Origami Techniques

"Shrimps," the latest jewelry design by Nana Watanabe, has captured the attention of the international design community by earning the Bronze A' Jewelry Design Award in 2025. Drawing inspiration from the delicate beauty of shrimp and the structural elegance of origami, Watanabe's earrings stand out for their innovative use of flat embroidered organza fabric, meticulously cut and folded to create a three-dimensional effect. The design is further distinguished by translucent eggs on the shrimp's abdomen and a structure that incorporates air, resulting in earrings that are both visually intricate and remarkably lightweight.

The creation process began in September 2022 in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, and concluded in December 2022. Watanabe combined traditional embroidery techniques with modern technology, starting with hand-drawn patterns and paper models before digitizing the design for machine embroidery. The earrings are crafted from organza and rayon thread, with extensive embroidery ensuring the soft fabric maintains its shape. Heat-cutting, adhesive assembly, and hand sewing complete the process, while the use of gradient-dyed rayon thread captures the enchanting translucency and movement of marine life.

Throughout the project, Watanabe faced and overcame significant technical challenges, particularly in bonding the delicate organza fabric while maintaining durability and structure. Extensive prototyping and research into both historical and contemporary jewelry techniques informed the final design, which balances artistry, sustainability, and comfort. The result is a pair of earrings that are not only lightweight and comfortable to wear but also serve as wearable art, brightening the wearer's face and offering a touch of humor and glamour. The "Shrimps" earrings come packaged in a luxurious gift box, underscoring their status as a unique and collectible piece of contemporary jewelry.

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