[masterslider id=”244″]
Michelle Hisae Meronek is the architect behind the remarkable M. Hisae portfolio of jewelry. She pulls inspiration from her Japanese and Eastern European heritage to blend concepts of art, object, and earth into symbols of commitment to self and others. Her pieces are a balance of masculine and feminine energy, and each piece is carefully crafted with a deep commitment to sustainability.
JA New York: My style muse is….
Michelle Hisae Meronek: A combination of Nina Simone and Georgia O’Keeffe.
JA New York: The difference between style and trend is…
MHM: Style is an inner knowing. It involves fearlessness and commitment to self in the truest sense. I think trends are “inside the box” – they’re propelled by a sense of urgency, and to me, urgency contradicts the grace of style.
JA New York: In five words, how would you define your design aesthetic?
MHM: Ancestral; conscious; balanced; modernist; curious.
JA New York: What are your top 5 studio essentials?
MHM: My Handler Red Wing polishing machine, proper ventilation, the ‘On Being by Krista Tippett’ podcast, stretching techniques, and windows.
JA New York: I’m always inspired by….?
MHM: The odd perfection in nature. I recently moved to Northwest Connecticut from NYC, and I’m in awe of the impact that wild plants and lushness have on my work. Also, the work of Ruth Asawa. Not only the mind-bending patience and dedication she had toward her wire sculptures, but, more importantly, the path she paved as a Japanese-American woman standing amongst powerfully creative men and women in the art world.
JA New York: What is your favorite piece that you’ve ever designed?
MHM: A recent wedding ring commission that debuted my Kaori Ring design. My client wanted to repurpose the sapphire and diamonds that were once a part of her mother’s engagement ring. It was purchased in Cork, Ireland some 40 years ago, and the new ring now sits next to her grandmother’s wedding band. Honoring three generations of women at once is the ultimate portrayal of love and heritage.
JA New York: In thinking about exhibiting in the New Designer Gallery, what are you most excited about? What are you most nervous about?
MHM: I’m most excited to bring all the elements of my work into one space, with a custom display and colors and elements from my own life. My collection is very much a reflection of myself and my heritage, so the whole experience feels very special. I’m most nervous about the spotlight. One-on-one conversations energize me, but nerves creep in fast when the audience triples. I’m working with a coach to improve in the areas of storytelling and public speaking, which I think is just important to my business than any other area. I welcome these opportunities for growth whenever I can.