Shou Sugi Ban

2015 – 2018

This series, composed of pieces made from sterling silver and wood charred by hand, is inspired by an ancient Japanese technique, traditionally used in architectural cladding. The wood, which appears to be ruined by fire, is made flameproof and rot resistant, while acquiring a unique look. Shou Sugi Ban is part of a symbolic approach, where the use of charred wood evokes a personal transformation, profound and intimate; the meeting of fire and wood, energy and matter. This collection offers a powerful aesthetic in which sterling silver, worked in a stilt structure, offers support to the crackled black wood. Strength and delicacy come from the harmonious meeting of these materials, so different, yet complimentary.

The single edition Aleph brooch from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
The single edition Gīml brooch from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Torus brooch, 2018
Pē, brooch, Single edition, 2018.
Rūsh, brooch, Single edition, 2018.
Shin, pin, single edition, 2018.

Production pieces

The Permutation ring from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
The Transmutation ring from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
The Scorched ring from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
The Torched ring from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Mutation necklace from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Carbonised necklace from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Metamorphosis necklace from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Transition necklace from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Combusted necklace from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Metamorphosis earrings
Transformation earrings from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.
Inflamed earrings from the Shou Sugi Ban collection, handcrafted by Julie Bégin using pure sterling silver and hand charred wood.