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London-born artist turned jewelry designer, Alexandra Hakim, embarked on a creative journey that transformed her artistry into exquisite jewelry pieces. In 2016, she founded her eponymous label, captivating the attention of celebrities like Rihanna, Janet Jackson, Alessandra Ambrosio, Gabrielle Union, and Emma Roberts. Her playful creations, from berry drop earrings to gold leaf hoops and chili pepper talismans, not only showcase her artistic flair but also pay homage to her cultural roots and commitment to sustainability.A Fusion of Art, Nature, and CultureDrawing inspiration from the intricate details of Baroque painting and the beauty of nature, Alexandra Hakim infuses her designs with a unique blend of artistic heritage and natural elements. Her pieces, such as spinning pearls and stackable gold earrings, transcend traditional jewelry concepts. But it’s not just art and nature that inspire her; it’s the diverse local communities of Lebanon that contribute to the rich tapestry of her designs. From farmers to fishermen and artisans, these individuals often hidden behind the scenes of daily life, form the foundation of her creative process.A Sustainable JourneySustainability is not just a trend for Hakim; it’s a fundamental aspect of her brand’s DNA. Operating with a zero-waste approach, she takes pride in her commitment to reducing environmental impact. Her jewelry pieces are a testament to longevity, offering an alternative to the fleeting nature of conventional luxury. For Hakim, the value of her creations lies not just in their aesthetics, but in the concepts they represent and the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.From London to Lebanon: Weaving Cultural MemoriesLondon and Lebanon play significant roles in Hakim’s creative narrative. As a child, she observed traditional elements of Lebanese culture gradually fading away. This realization, combined with her exposure to art and metalwork at Central Saint Martins in London, sparked her transformation from a painter to a jewelry designer. By translating consumed objects and cultural memories into wearable jewels, she creates pieces that encapsulate the tastes and textures of her heritage, aiming to preserve them for eternity.Redefining Luxury in the Middle EastWhile the Middle East is synonymous with opulent fine jewelry, Hakim is redefining luxury by offering contemporary, accessible, and meaningful alternatives. Her designs challenge the conventional perception of luxury, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship and concept over extravagance. In a region steeped in tradition, she paves the way for a new understanding of what it means to be luxurious.A Creative EvolutionInitially crafting every piece herself, Hakim has now expanded her artisanal team in Beirut, where her studio is located. While creating jewelry comes naturally to her, the transition into entrepreneurship has brought its own set of challenges. Balancing creativity with business acumen has been a learning experience, pushing her to develop skills beyond her craft. Her journey offers a lesson for aspiring brand owners: stay true to your vision, work relentlessly, and evolve into a well-rounded entrepreneur.Carving a Unique NicheAlexandra Hakim’s journey from art to jewelry reflects her dedication to preserving culture, celebrating nature, and promoting sustainability. Through her playful designs that pay homage to Baroque intricacies, she weaves cultural narratives and artisanal craftsmanship. Her brand not only introduces contemporary luxury to the Middle East but also redefines it, making her a beacon of creativity, heritage, and ethical consciousness in the world of jewelry.
