Masha Omranian Esfahani is an emerging artist fascinated with playing with volumes in metalwork and mixing unconventional materials not typically found in traditional jewelry-making. Spontaneity is central, allowing the design and message to evolve organically. The aim is to surprise and provoke thought, whether through the unexpected use of materials like hair or by challenging societal norms with imagery rarely seen, such as depictions of female breasts in a Persian context. By blending these elements, the work strives to push boundaries and spark meaningful conversations. This project emerged from practice-based research conducted for a BA thesis in jewelry design. The piece is deeply personal yet reflects collective memory within Persian culture. On a personal level, it serves as a tribute to the maternal lineage, particularly as a form of mourning—a symbolic use of hair popular among English Victorians. On a broader social level, it addresses the enduring struggle of Persian women to reclaim lost rights and dignity. The hair used was collected from the artist, their mother, aunt, and grandmother, creating a tangible link to heritage. Intertwined with a frame symbolizing DNA, the piece visually connects themes of lineage, resilience, and dignity.
