In search of reduced moulds
Guja Youssefi has long found inspiration for these types of brooches in wire bending. He has long been fascinated by this technique, but had never truly tackled developing a larger concept from it. "My studies at the Faculty of Design brought me closer to this approach again. Furthermore, steel is a fairly affordable material and also very easy to weld. I was looking for minimalist forms, something we were strongly encouraged to do in my studies. And faces, masks, facial expressions, and their emotional expressions have always captivated me. Moreover, I find the hidden and mysterious aspects of masks very interesting, regardless of whether they are physical masks or the manipulation of one's own expression for the purpose of deception," the artist explains.
As a graduate, he feels well-prepared for his path as an artist thanks to his studies: “Of course, the Faculty of Design, and especially Professor Melanie Isverding, were an encouraging and guiding force. This was true both through all the exhibitions and excursions she organized, and through her patience and feedback on my work. Professor Isverding doesn't judge, but rather stimulates reflection. The individual lecturers and workshop leaders were also always there to offer advice and support, as were my family and fellow students,” summarizes Guja Youssefi. The 2025 BKV Prize is endowed with 3,000 euros, and the Bavarian Arts and Crafts Association (BKV) will also publish the winning works in a catalog, which will appear in the BKV's publication series in both German and English. The prize also includes a three-year free membership in the Bavarian Arts and Crafts Association.
