Five questions with Mashallah Ghouleh, jewelry designer and all-around creator. Based in Chicago, her work is dedicated to the eco-friendly process of making, utilizing recycled metals taken from electronic waste from landfills. Her pieces are interesting, geometric, and socially conscious, and we were thrilled to catch her for a few questions.
1. Where do you find design inspiration?
MG: For me, inspiration is constantly happening. I receive it through people-watching in all environments, on and offline, and architecture from my travels and at home. I mostly like to tap into my clients' lifestyles. That ultimately guides me to make the right design decisions.
2. How would you describe your style?
MG: I usually say that I do not have a “style." I’m sort of a free spirit, and allow my mood to take over. That said, I do not feel confident in the color black. There are only a handful of black garments in my boudoir, so if you see me, you're likely to see me in white or lots of color!
3. If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
MG: Erin Van Vuren of @papercrumbs is a writer/poet I have followed for years and she can either make me laugh, cry, or wake me the fuck up. She reminds me of my worth, and the fact I/we are human.
This is a recent poem from her:
The world is filled with more sad stories than water; more anger than blades of grass. But what they won’t tell you is there is more magic than grains of sand; more hope than mornings began. What they won’t tell you is you were never meant to be a tragedy. You are, and will always have been…A revolution.
4. What is some advice that you would give someone looking to get into your profession?
MG: Have confidence in yourself. Set goals, both large and small- they are equally important. Keep people who motivate and inspire you close.
.5. What is your favorite thing to do in Chicago?
MG: I love going to concerts, or to see live music at places like Andy’s Jazz Club; I’m a huge fan of music from all genres. And food! I’m a vegetarian and feel lucky to live in such a place with rich food culture.
Bonus Question: What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
MG: Is it ok to say every piece?! I mean, it’s difficult for me because I’m a collector (of all things, really), and love every piece I own. Sometimes I only wear specific pieces once a year, but when I put them on I feel reborn.
Many thanks Mashallah for finding the time to chat with us!
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