Partners in Creation
In the vibrant tapestry of San Francisco’s creative scene, one encounter left an indelible mark on my photographic journey. Tom Basler, an innovative jewelry designer and artisan, was introduced to me by Miae Nelson during a glamorous photoshoot organized at the Hayward Executive Airport. This serendipitous meeting would not just remain a one-time event but evolve into a series of collaborations that bridged the worlds of photography and jewelry design, both on location and in the studio, and even on the runway. Tom’s avant-garde designs and unconventional choice of materials, I soon discovered, set him apart, elevating him into a league of his own.
The Runway
On Location
The Studio
One vivid memory that I’d like to share happened during a visit to Tom’s studio in San Francisco. I was there to collect a piece of jewelry for an upcoming photoshoot. Walking into the studio, I felt as though I’d stepped into an alchemist’s secret lair, where raw elements are transformed into spectacular pieces of art. The space was imbued with Tom’s unique energy, strewn with pieces in various stages of creation, tools of his trade and materials waiting to be sculpted into his next masterpiece. It was exactly as you would imagine – a tangible manifestation of the creativity that pulsated within him.
The atmosphere was so compelling that I couldn’t resist capturing it. I pulled out my camera, intending to immortalize the magic of the moment. Through my lens, I sought to frame Tom, not merely as a subject, but as an artist engrossed in his craft. The result was a series of portraits and candid shots that highlighted not just the man, but the entire ethos behind his work.
These collaborations with Tom have enriched my photographic journey, providing a unique glimpse into the world of avant-garde jewelry design. As a photographer, I am always on the lookout for authentic moments, expressions that speak volumes, and narratives that touch the soul. Collaborating with Tom has been a treasure trove of such moments, each project unraveling another layer of his creative universe.
The common thread weaving through our collaborations is the appreciation for individuality and passion for our crafts. Through our projects, we have continually pushed the boundaries of our respective fields, exploring novel ways to intersect photography and jewelry design. Each project has been a learning experience, a give and take of ideas that has expanded our artistic perspectives.
Looking back, I cherish these collaborations with Tom, not just for the end results but also for the process. Every step, from conceptualization to the final execution, has been an exhilarating journey. A journey where we brought to life shared visions, unraveling stories and capturing emotions through the lens of a camera and the craftsmanship of a piece of jewelry.
So, here’s to celebrating the intersections, the collaborations, and the shared journey of two creative minds. It’s these moments, these collaborations that keep the creative flame burning, pushing us to look beyond the ordinary and create magic, one project at a time.
Meet Tom Basler
Tom Basler, a beacon of ingenuity in the world of jewelry design, proudly calls the vibrant, eclectic city of San Francisco his creative sanctuary. His designs draw life from his environment, expressing a unique interpretation of the relationship between urban architecture and natural elements. They become an intriguing amalgam of these two influences, producing an avant-garde range of wearable art that dances on the line between traditional adornments and expressive, functional sculpture.
Discarded and overlooked materials serve as the unexpected muses in Tom’s creative odyssey. He turns the unloved into the invaluable, finding a unique satisfaction in rescuing and repurposing such materials, which he breathes new life into, using them as the very fabric of his artistic expressions. His creations are therefore not only bold and expressive but also rooted in a powerful narrative of transformation and reinvention, with each piece proudly standing as a testament to his distinctive vision and craftsmanship.
What fuels Tom’s passion, however, is not confined to the design or creation process alone. His art truly comes alive when it’s worn, embracing a new life and context with every individual it adorns. This remarkable dialogue, this intimate connection established between the wearer and the jewelry, is the lifeblood of his work. It’s this transformative power, this ability to form personal connections that fuels Tom’s artistry.
Always pushing the boundaries of his craft, Tom is now on a new creative venture, shaping a lifestyle brand that promises a refreshing fusion of elements. Drawing inspiration from the energy of pop art and the unbridled spirit of skate culture, his new venture adds an undertone of fun and adventure to his portfolio. While jewelry remains at the heart of this initiative, Tom is expanding his creative horizon to encompass accessories and fashion as well. In doing so, he’s nurturing a holistic creative vision that celebrates individuality and freedom of expression.
Kisau Photography 