Joy Harvey (1993) was born in Italy, where she currently lives and works. Graduated in Pure Chemistry from the University of Bologna in 2017, Joy’s artistic path
transitioned from science to craft, deeply influencing her jewelry work. In 2021, she co-founded La Luce, a jewelry studio that reflects her unique blend of artistic
and scientific insights. Harvey’s dedication to craftsmanship is rooted in a blend of Florentine goldsmithing and Armenian techniques, alongside contemporary digital technology. Her work has been recognized internationally, with accolades including a finalist position in the 2024 LVMH Maestri d’Eccellenza Prize and a featured role in the 2024 PMA Craft Show as an artist, representating Italy alongside a contingent a selected artists.
Artistic practice
As both a scientist and an artist, Joy Harvey’s practice is informed by the intersection of knowledge and creative expression. Her approach draws from an
eclectic mix of techniques from various cultures, merging ancient methods with modern innovations. For Harvey, beauty is not an absolute concept but one shaped by individual experiences, culture, and biology. Her jewelry pieces are not only aesthetically driven but serve as a platform for exploring deeper emotional and philosophical themes. Each piece she creates, from the alloys to the final polish, embodies her vision of human imperfection, growth, and the complexities of age. Harvey’s jewelry is a testament to her journey of reconciling her fears of aging and invisibility, challenging societal perceptions of youth and beauty.
Focus on the works selected for the jury
The selected works for this jury exemplify Joy Harvey’s ability to blend delicate artistry with profound conceptual depth. One such piece, the Flower wreath,
showcases her mastery of both traditional and modern techniques. The wreath contrasts the polished, golden ideal of beauty with the natural, imperfect brass
flowers, symbolizing the complementary relationship between youth and aging. Through these works, Harvey addresses the cultural obsession with perfection and youth, while embracing the value of aging and imperfection. Her pieces, all one-ofa-kind, are intended to evoke emotional responses, inviting the viewer to reflect on beauty not as a fixed state but as a dynamic, evolving concept. Harvey’s artistic evolution is captured in her increasingly intricate and conscious designs, where every patina and imperfection adds to the narrative of growth and selfexpression.
See all the laureates of the International Prize
