Yiru Zhang’s journey from a budding gemologist to a curator in the realms of jewellery and metal arts is a compelling narrative of passion, education, and transformation. Her evolution is not just a career shift but a pioneering approach to integrating sophisticated gemmology with the aesthetic disciplines of contemporary art.
Early Education and Passion for Gemmology
Yiru Zhang’s initial foray into the world of gemmology at the China University of Geosciences in Wuhan provided her with a profound appreciation for the intrinsic characteristics of gems. Her focus was not on the commercial value of gemstones but on their unique natural qualities, particularly their inclusions, which she saw not as flaws but as features that made each stone one of a kind. This perspective led her to explore the distinctive appeal of natural formations within gemstones during her studies. Her graduation thesis delved into the composition and genesis of inclusions in Madagascar cherry agates, marking a significant culmination of her academic pursuit in gemmology. Yiru’s approach to gemstones as materials for artistic expression rather than mere commercial entities set the foundation for her subsequent shift toward the jewellery and metal arts.
Transition to Jewellery and Metal Arts
Following her passion for the material aspects of gemstones, Yiru pursued further education at the Royal College of Art in London, where she enrolled in the Jewellery & Metal (J&M) programme. This period was transformative; she began experimenting with kinetic jewellery, eager to showcase the aesthetic of mechanical structures through her creations. Her engineering background significantly influenced her work, guiding her to emphasise the mechanical beauty and movement in jewellery design. This integration of mechanics with artistry defined her personal style. After graduating, Yiru continued her artistic pursuits briefly, which served as a bridge to her ultimate career as a curator.
Founding Alsolike Gallery
After graduating and engaging in the art scene as an artist, Yiru quickly recognised the challenges faced by contemporary jewellery—particularly small-scale works—in garnering attention in the traditional gallery setting. Many of her peers and acquaintances in the art world shared these difficulties, inspiring her to create a space dedicated to the nuanced display of small artworks. This realisation led to the establishment of Alsolike Gallery in London’s dynamic Shoreditch area. The gallery was meticulously designed with specialised lighting, layout, and ambiance to ensure that each small-scale piece could be appreciated in detail within a serene environment. This venture not only provided a platform for artists specialising in small-scale works but also allowed Yiru to fully embrace her role as a curator, bridging her past as an artist with her present focus on promoting and understanding contemporary jewellery and metalwork through carefully curated exhibitions.
As a curator, Yiru has excelled in promoting not just the aesthetic appreciation of jewellery and metal arts but also in fostering cultural exchange. Her gallery has become a hub for both Eastern and Western artists, facilitating dialogues that transcend cultural boundaries. Yiru Zhang’s transition from gemmology to gallery ownership is a testament to her unyielding passion for art and her commitment to redefining the boundaries between different art forms. Her journey reflects a seamless fusion of science and art, underpinned by her deep respect for both the material and the craft.