DEFAÏENCE is renowned for its commitment to combining artistic integrity with functionality, creating pieces that are not only visually stunning but also tell a story. The brand’s collections often draw inspiration from Bacchilega’s personal experiences and broader cultural narratives. Under his creative direction, DEFAÏENCE has gained acclaim for its bold and transformative designs, resonating with a discerning clientele who appreciate artistry and innovation.
In an exclusive interview for DSCENE Magazine, our Editor, Anastasija Pavic, sits down with Nicola Bacchilega to explore the complexities of jewelry design. Bacchilega, known for his unique background in ceramic sculpture, brings a distinctive artistry to his creations, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. In this interview, Bacchilega will shed light on how DEFAÏENCE continues to push the boundaries of jewelry design, and he will share more about his new collection, ANQĀ.
INTERVIEWS
How does your background in ceramic sculpture influence your approach to designing jewelry pieces for DEFAÏENCE?
My background in ceramic sculpture deeply influences my approach to designing jewelry for DEFAÏENCE. I approach jewelry design as if I was creating art pieces, focusing on form, texture, and expression. Starting with clay allows me to sculpt freely, exploring shapes and forms without constraints. Once I’ve achieved the desired shape, I leverage 3D technology to scan and scale the piece, bridging traditional craftsmanship with innovation. This blend of traditional techniques and cutting-edge technology allows me to create jewelry that is both artistically inspired and technically precise.
Can you share a glimpse into your personal creative process?
When I begin designing and planning a collection, the process usually starts with the narrative I want to convey. These concepts often stem from personal experiences or something I envision for the woman I’m designing for. I start with thorough research of the themes, seeking out figures, connections, and historical or cultural links. The story is fundamental to my process; it guides the entire collection. Once I find a refrence that encapsulates the essence of the theme, it inspires every aspect of the collection, including the colors, shapes, materials, and styling. This narrative-driven approach ensures that each piece is not only visually appealing but also deeply meaningful and connected to a larger context.
The flood in Faenza last year served as inspiration for the ANQĀ collection. How did you translate this experience into the designs and themes of the collection?
As I have explained before, I deeply immerse myself in the brand, and my personal experiences constantly inspire me. The massive flood that hit Faenza (the city in Italy where the brand is based) last year was devastating – I lost my studio, my home, and physical memories. It was a moving moment that changed me positively. It felt like a rebirth for me, much like the phoenix reborn from ashes. ANQĀ, the Arabic phoenix in mythology, is the protagonist of this collection. What I learned is that life requires us to accept both the good and the bad, finding balance between darkness and light. This concept of yin and yang is central to the collection, which is why I chose to use only black and white for the garments that embrace the body and showcase beautiful jewelry finished in gold, silver, and accented with diamonds. The visual campaign came together even before finalizing the collection. After the flood, I reached out to my friend Sebastian Kapfhammer, knowing he could translate my emotions into visuals that captured suffering and happiness, balance, beauty, rebirth, and empowerment. This journey has been amazing, and despite losing everything, I am grateful for the lessons life has gifted me. Thank you to everyone who supported and helped me through this journey.
How do you anticipate your work resonating with customers on a deeper level, beyond its visual appeal?
I constantly strive to improve my final products by adopting new technologies for jewelry production, ensuring comfort, durability, and quality. The exclusivity of my creations offers customers a sense of uniqueness through customizable services, fostering a personal connection and sense of ownership. By incorporating cultural elements that resonate with the brand’s identity and heritage and emphasizing eco-friendly and ethical practices, we create a deeper connection with our customers. Most importantly, I aim to provide a sense of spiritual elevation through wearing DEFAÏENCE, instilling a feeling of godlike power in my creations.
How does the ANQĀ collection contribute to the broader narrative or story you’re telling through DEFAÏENCE’s creations?
The ANQĀ collection introduces the second series of DEFAÏENCE collections that embodies themes of resilience, renewal, and the transformative power of nature. Nature and climate change play important roles in the brand’s narrative, expressed through elements, images, and creations that are part of each series. This ongoing theme will be further developed in future collections.
I constantly strive to improve my final products by adopting new technologies for jewelry production, ensuring comfort, durability, and quality. The exclusivity of my creations offers customers a sense of uniqueness through customizable services, fostering a personal connection and sense of ownership.
In what ways do DEFAÏENCE collections challenge stereotypes?
DEFAÏENCE collections challenge stereotypes by embracing avant-garde designs that defy traditional norms. Through bold silhouettes, unconventional materials, and narratives that celebrate individuality, the brand breaks free from established fashion conventions, encouraging self-expression and empowerment.
The brand has gained significant traction among celebrities. How do you feel about the recognition and support from such influential figures?
The recognition and support from influential figures truly validate DEFAÏENCE’s unique vision and artistic integrity. Witnessing celebrities from diverse backgrounds resonate and align with our brand ethos is deeply inspiring. Each time someone interprets and feels connected with DEFAÏENCE, it’s both incredible and sometimes surreal. Their endorsement not only boosts our message of creativity and authenticity but also reaches a broader audience, spreading the essence of our brand further into the world.
With stores in several major cities globally, how do you adapt your designs to cater to different cultural preferences and tastes?
We have recently partnered with MDC Showroom in Milan, where we plan to present exclusive ready-to-wear DEFAÏENCE capsule collections specially designed for the stores. Our jewelry, designed to be made in different sizes without losing the brand’s DNA, connects the narrative across different cultures. DEFAÏENCE also provides a unique service for crafting one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to the client’s specifications. Everything is designed and made in our atelier and workshop in Faenza, Italy, employing artisanal techniques and premium materials to ensure the enduring quality of each personalized creation.
When I begin designing and planning a collection, the process usually starts with the narrative I want to convey. These concepts often stem from personal experiences or something I envision for the woman I’m designing for.
How does DEFAÏENCE prioritize sustainability in its overall practices?
DEFAÏENCE prioritizes sustainability by implementing eco-friendly production processes, sourcing materials responsibly, and minimizing waste throughout the supply chain. We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry. For us, sustainability also involves protecting craftsmanship and collaborating with local or small businesses. These collaborations are key to preserving traditional techniques and supporting communities, ensuring that our approach to sustainability is holistic and impactful.
Looking ahead, what can we expect in terms of future collections and brand initiatives?
DEFAÏENCE aims to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in future collections. Series 03, releasing in February 2025, will further explore the concept of climate change as a development of the ANQĀ collection. This series will introduce haute couture, high fashion jewelry, and fine jewelry that continue to reflect our commitment to sustainability and innovation. Additionally, we will explore collaborations, community engagement projects, and philanthropic efforts to create a positive impact beyond the fashion industry.
View the collection in the Gallery below:
