Emerging from a childhood that lacked the vibrancy of color, Valentina Podshivalova has metamorphosed into a designer with a unique vision that transforms limitations into boundless creativity. Today, her exquisite 3D jewelry seamlessly blends artistic elegance with cutting-edge technology, earning her a revered place in the upper echelons of high fashion.
Currently, Valentina occupies a distinguished position within the elite realm of high jewelry, known for her intricately detailed designs that beautifully merge mechanical innovation with artistic expression. Her transformation from a small-town needlework enthusiast to a globally recognized designer showcases the intricacies and grace interwoven throughout her creations. It’s a journey marked by unwavering dedication, a vibrant and inventive vision, and a passionate goal to elevate art into exquisite, wearable treasures that tell rich stories of their own.
Valentina’s passion for design sprouted at a young age. “As a child, I loved needlework. I could spend the whole day without a break working on some creation—embroidery, crochet, sewing. Painting and drawing were also my favorite occupations,” she recounts with fond nostalgia. Not attending formal art schools didn’t hinder her creativity; in fact, it thrived as a companion throughout her life. By high school, she received the Young Talents Award for an embroidery project, a significant milestone that marked the beginning of an artistic journey that would stretch across various forms.
Her fascination with fine details and tangible artistry naturally drew her into the jewelry design sector. Following her graduation from the Institute of Art and Design in her hometown of Izhevsk, Russia, Valentina embarked on her career with a jewelry company during an internship that allowed her to delve into the captivating world of 3D high jewelry. Starting her professional journey as an apprentice designer at Golden Orchideus, she was fortunate to be mentored by the talented Shadrin Sergey Vasilievich. His designs have been recognized at prestigious events, like the JCK Las Vegas Show, setting a high bar and an enriching environment for Valentina to hone her skills and cultivate her artistic voice.
After her early successes at Golden Orchideus, Valentina advanced to Master Exclusive, where her role as a 3D designer evolved significantly. As the chief designer, she was no longer just creating designs; she was conceptualizing complex pieces that fused artistry with mechanical functionality. Among her standout pieces were a magnificent beetle brooch with articulating wings and a charming flower brooch that blossomed in a delicate display. These designs were not merely engineering marvels; they were layered artistic expressions that combined visual beauty with practical design elements.
Valentina’s commitment to producing exclusive jewelry featuring intricate mechanisms earned her widespread acclaim and numerous international awards in the jewelry design community. Her signature style drew admiration from both peers and critics alike, solidifying her status as a talented designer within a competitive field.
The pandemic ushered in a profound period of transformation for Valentina, as it did for many. After years immersed in design houses, she chose to chart her own path. “Returning to office work was a challenge for me. I decided to embrace the path of self-employment,” she shares, reflecting on the journey. Initially, she offered her design expertise to jewelers in Switzerland, Italy, France, and even the U.S. and China. Yet, her creative spirit yearned for even greater freedom, prompting her to begin crafting her own jewelry.
Her distinct creative vision quickly attracted attention, leading to an invitation from Artistar Milano Jewelry Week to showcase her work in Italy, including pieces like the “Chocolate” brooch and the “Bat” ring. The “Chocolate” brooch turned heads, ultimately landing a spot on the event’s book cover—an impressive accolade that emphasized her budding presence on the international jewelry scene.
Valentina’s collaborations have further enriched her illustrious career, most notably with American actress and jewelry designer Juliana Donald. Reflecting on this partnership, she notes that it inspired her creativity to explore exciting new directions while establishing her spot within elite circles. Despite her success, Valentina remains grounded, consistently acknowledging those who have influenced her journey. “I admire many designers, but the ones that truly captivate me are the ones whose work ignites inspiration within me,” she says, naming respected figures like Luz Camino, JAR, and Claire Falkenstein. Yet, it’s her grandmother who remains her most profound source of inspiration—her “main reference point” for kindness and integrity.
As Valentina looks to the future, her aspirations of establishing her own brand are vivid. She envisions producing pieces that encapsulate her artistic vision while remaining true to her creative spirit rather than simply mirroring market trends. “I want the next few years to be my time, focusing on my unique creations. I want to design freely, without the pressures of cost or sales movements,” she proclaims with determination. Upcoming collections aim to intertwine her signature mechanical intricacies with innovative, contemporary themes, breathing life into each creation—each one carrying an essential responsibility, especially now that her name is the one behind them.
“When you create on your own, not under the umbrella of another brand, a different kind of pressure arises,” she explains. “You become more aware of how your pieces resonate with buyers.” Valentina’s artistry grips international audiences, with her work prominently featured in prestigious exhibitions across the globe, melding Russian artistic traditions with modern aesthetics. Her accolades are numerous, including third place at the Junwex St. Petersburg International Jewelry Contest, finalist positions at the New Russian Style and Junwex Moscow exhibitions, alongside multiple honors from global festivals.
However, her influence stretches beyond her creations; she is dedicated to inspiring fellow digital designers. With an empowering message, she encourages them to step into the light and showcase their talents. “There are countless resources available today to get your work seen,” she remarks.
In the vast, dazzling realm of high jewelry, Valentina Podshivalova’s work stands out as truly groundbreaking. With an impressive array of awards and international recognition underscoring her career, she has transcended conventional jewelry design, materializing pieces that symbolize creativity and courage. As her legacy unfolds, it’s clear her influence reaches far beyond her captivating creations, leaving a lasting impact on the design world while inspiring a new generation of creators to embrace their artistry and share their unique vision with the world.
