Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Simone Kestelman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Simone , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was an installation addressing violence against children, presented in a museum in Brazil setting. The project stemmed from my deep concern for the countless children around the world who endure unimaginable suffering, including those rescued from sex trafficking in Cambodia and Vietnam—some as young as ten years old. Through this installation, I sought to create a powerful visual and emotional narrative that would not only raise awareness but also spark urgent conversations about this harrowing issue.

The installation used delicate materials like glass and porcelain, symbolizing both the fragility and resilience of children. Each piece told a story—some marked by shadows, others illuminated by light—representing the stark contrasts of despair and hope. Presenting this work in a museum offered a space for reflection and action, giving visitors a moment to connect deeply with the cause.

This project holds a special place in my heart because it exemplifies art’s ability to transcend beauty and serve as a catalyst for change, amplifying voices that are too often silenced.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Simone Kestelman, a Brazilian-American multimedia artist and jewelry designer with a deep passion for transforming ordinary materials into extraordinary works of art. My journey began with glass and porcelain, mediums that have become my signature for their ability to convey both strength and fragility. I started in the art world creating sculptures and installations that explore themes of resilience, transformation, and social issues, and over time, this evolved into wearable art—jewelry that tells a story.

My creations range from large-scale installations for public spaces to intricate, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. Each piece is infused with meaning and designed to inspire connection and reflection. For my clients, I provide exclusive, handmade designs that celebrate individuality and elevate personal expression, whether for a special occasion, a bold fashion statement, or a meaningful gift. My commitment to sustainability also sets me apart—I use eco-friendly materials like porcelain and vegan leather, combining elegance with environmental responsibility.

What makes my work unique is my dedication to storytelling. Every sculpture, necklace, or earring is more than just a piece; it’s an invitation to engage with beauty, art, and purpose. I’m particularly proud of the projects where my art has sparked conversations about social change, like my installations addressing violence against children or the healing garden I created in the pediatric cancer wing of a hospital in Israel.

For those discovering my work, I want you to know that my brand is about more than art or jewelry—it’s about celebrating the transformative power of creativity and the beauty that exists in every moment. Whether you’re visiting my studio, exploring my collections at a gallery, or wearing a piece of my jewelry, I hope you’ll feel inspired, seen, and connected.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being an artist is the ability to transform emotions, ideas, and stories into something tangible that resonates with others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how my work—whether a large-scale installation or a piece of jewelry—can evoke emotions, spark conversations, or even inspire change.

Art allows me to connect with people on a deeper level, often across cultures and languages. Moments when someone shares how my work has moved them or brought meaning to their life are truly priceless. For instance, seeing the impact of my healing garden installation in a pediatric cancer wing or hearing from a client who treasures a piece of jewelry because it holds a personal story remind me of art’s profound ability to touch lives.

Ultimately, being an artist is about creating beauty and meaning in the world, and knowing that my work has made even a small difference in someone’s life is the greatest reward.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

One of the most pivotal moments in my career came during a deeply personal and unexpected experience—creating a corsage for my youngest daughter’s prom. Until then, my focus had been on large-scale art installations and sculptures, but this small, intimate project sparked a new direction. That simple handmade corsage, designed from porcelain, resonated with a sense of meaning and beauty that was deeply personal and wearable.

The positive response to the corsage led me to explore the idea of creating art that could be worn, blending my expertise in ceramics, glass and design with a more intimate, everyday connection to people’s lives. This moment marked the beginning of my journey into jewelry design, resulting in a collection of unique, handmade pieces that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.

This pivot not only expanded my artistic expression but also allowed me to reach a broader audience. It was a reminder that even small, personal moments can lead to transformative shifts in a career. Today, my jewelry collections are a core part of my work, and they continue to bring art into people’s lives in a way I had never imagined.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.simonekestelman.com
• Instagram: @kestelmansimone and @simonek_design

Image Credits

Simone K and Ana Paula Caldas