Dubbed as the “Alchemist of Design”: Nohma Kaaki is the First Architect/Designer in the KSA to Introduce Multi-Use, Modular Pieces of Statement Jewelry
October 1st, 2024
In the dynamic world of design, where innovation and elegance intersect, Nohma stands as a beacon of creative prowess and ingenuity. Her multifaceted career spans architecture, urbanism, and jewelry design, seamlessly blending these disciplines to create extraordinary pieces that are both functional and breathtakingly beautiful. With a reputation for delivering award-winning designs, Nohma’s relentless pursuit of excellence and her bold, forward-thinking approach have earned her a distinguished place in the global design community.
Nohma’s work transcends traditional boundaries, embodying a philosophy deeply rooted in cultural and personal identity. Her designs are a testament to her belief in the power of simplicity and timeless elegance, challenging the rigid norms of contemporary capitalism and celebrating the unique narratives that define us. Through her visionary modular jewelry, she offers a revolutionary approach to adornment, allowing pieces to transform and adapt, much like the wearer’s own journey through life.
Her unapologetic strength, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to the highest standards are evident in every creation. As an architect and designer, Nohma’s ability to think outside the box and her dedication to craftsmanship are not just qualities but a calling, one that invites us all to reclaim our stories and assert our place in the artistic and cultural realm.
“My designs represent simple aesthetics and real beauty for what it is in essence: Timeless, Intelligent and Unique.’’
What drew you towards jewelry design?
I have always liked beautiful things whether in art, architecture or jewelry, but venturing into jewelry design was a pure coincidence. it happened through the Celestial Module, which became the innovative piece of statement jewelry. It was totally unplanned. From a 3D print in plastic it evolved into a personal piece of jewelry, into a niche brand. I call it “empathetic design” because it’s a universal piece that can be worn in any way and built into different shapes and styles, depending on the style and mood of the individual wearing them.
“Through my art, I aim to weave a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and perspectives that collectively tell the story of every individual in our community’’
Is there a specific story that you want to tell through your art?
Through my art, I aim to weave a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and perspectives that collectively tell the story of every individual in our community- a narrative of love, triumph, and resilience that resonates with all who pause to listen. In architecture , when creating spaces, I create not just for functionality but for the spiritual well being of the people. Similarly in jewelry design, while my creations are very purposeful, the human aspect of the design based on connectivity & spirituality is a bullet proof concept that supersedes all shapes and forms. Each jewel acts as a canvas for the story of the person wearing it. And each piece becomes a conversation starter cause you’ll definitely be asked about it.
You have quite a minimal aesthetic. What part did your architectural background play in your current career path?
Not always, some pieces are minimalistic (such as the True North collection) while others can be more bold and eccentric- it is what we call in Arabic (السهل الممتنع) effortless beauty that is not easily achieved. The creativity lies in the “outside the box thinking”, which involves stacking, connecting, building and reshaping- and transforming it from a unique simple in form to a bolder statement piece. Such styles can be shaped with the Celestial Modules varying from a singular minimalist piece to a more bold and contemporary piece of multiple Modules, depending on how a person accentuates and builds them together.
How do you want the landscape to change in the KSA for female designers?
I see a big shift already happening in Saudi Arabia encouraging young women designers. There’s always room for improvement and there will always be a need for more to be done for the talented designers. Most of the young designers and artists have no marketing budget and their real asset is in the value of their designs. Sadly, this industry is controlled by marketing and social networks, and what is fed to us by social media. As Arab consumers, we need to look for what is being offered to us in terms of real value rather than investing in brands that sell us an ‘equity value’ boosted by marketing. We should be consuming what is truly valuable in terms of quality and value in design. We truly need to unplug from being dubbed as “consumers” and be “authentically responsible” in what we consume. We need to be conscious about our selections and this comes with awareness and development of an individualistic taste that truly represents who we are. My aim is to break the monotony and cross all barriers and push boundaries. To educate people about the brand and the strong sense of art that is instilled into every design, and shift our thinking and focus on what is important and valuable to us as a community. We have no shortage of Arab talents, on the contrary we can flood the world with creativity, poetry, and arts. Our world is hungry to see new faces and innovations.
What has been your biggest challenge this far?
Marketing and media play a crucial role in this field. But they’re mainly focused on the commercial aspect to help them continue. We certainly need more platforms like “Gems of Arabia” that help shed light on new talents. We need to see new faces and ideas and our community is sophisticated enough and open to accepting these new ideas, they just don’t know that they exist. I find it sad when I get recognized internationally and challenged in my own world.
What has been your most memorable experience since starting your journey?
A lot of memorable moments on the journey of jewelry design, from meeting great people and creatives and clients who then became friends. The most memorable thing was winning the Middle East jewelry award, among 450 entries & amongst which were international brands and established designers just a year after I launched. This was an absolute honor and happy moment.
What advice do you have for your younger self?
To be less fearful. To take calculated risks and have more confidence in myself. I’m a bit of an ambivert and believe that my work and designs are strong enough to speak for themselves without me having to say a word. But sometimes we need to push ourselves out of our cocoons and connect with others who resonate with me and my brand. And this is precisely what I’m doing right now.
Less is more or more is more?
Less is More when it comes to simplicity and elegance, while More is More when abundance and a more accentuated look is desired. The key is knowing when each approach is most appropriate to achieve the desired effect at that specific moment.
What is style to you?
Style is timelessness & originality. It doesn’t follow trends and it’s a statement on its own. It is like a fingerprint – unique, leaves an impression/ mark, and can’t be copied.
What is authenticity to you?
Authenticity is being real and non pretentious, it’s about being proud of our heritage and the values we hold. To do the things that make sense for us not because we are programmed to do it in a certain way. We have so much values and beautiful traditions. It’s about time we preserve our arts and culture. Starting with preserving our language & arts and crafts.
I am happy I was able to build a community around the brand that is organic & authentic because I connect with bright amazing ppl with an appreciation for the arts and culture, who are after that which is unique and original, who don’t need to prove anything and don’t want to associate themselves to anyone.
I get to know each and everyone; some are art collectors, cultural voices, I get to know who they are what made them this way how they came to have such an acquired taste. Every year i being my community together and discuss ways on finding our authenticity and the power to believe in ourselves.
“I find it sad when I get recognized internationally and challenged in my own world.’’
Photography is by the Award winning cinematographer:
Manuel W. Alajajian and make up by artist: Moe Rida