“ I try to make every item I create by hand carry positive energy” — Natia Giorgobiani, master of cloisonné enamel art

Natia Giorgobiani had been interested in art since childhood. She discovered her talent at an early age and created various handmade works. A few years ago, she became fascinated with cloisonné enamel art. During the learning process, various factors stood in her way, but she still achieved her goal, mastered the craft, and soon began creating jewelry. People have been interested in her original handmade works for years, and the artist already has many customers. She puts great effort, knowledge, and love into every piece she creates, which makes her works even more distinctive. Read our interview to learn about the experience of a 42-year-old woman working with cloisonné enamel.

— Hello Natia, thank you very much for agreeing to this interview.

1. When and why did you become interested in cloisonné enamel? Where did your creative journey begin?

Years ago, I saw an enamel medallion depicting the Virgin Mary at an acquaintance’s home. I loved it very much and wanted to study the craft. At that time, learning enamel art was rare and expensive, so I could not fulfill that wish.

Years later, I learned felt-making and created felt bags and toys. During that period, I was a member of the Traditional Crafts Association, and my works were sold in their stores.

One day, I came across enamel artworks there. I asked them to find out where I could study enamel work. A few days later, they contacted me and guided me. It was the professional course at the boarding school named after Saint Queen Tamar.

After an interview with Father Mirian, I received 80% funding from the Patriarchate and completed a six-month cloisonné enamel course under the guidance of Soso Zangaladze.

2. How long have you been working in this field?

Approximately 6–7 years.

3. What is so attractive and interesting about cloisonné enamel that captivated you so deeply?

The fact that through it I can express my imagination and emotions.

4. What do your works include?

Jewelry for both women and men, such as rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and more.

5. Besides jewelry, do you work on other items as well, such as decorative objects?

I am interested in it, but due to lack of time, I cannot manage to do so.

6. Do you remember what your very first work was?

My first work was my diploma project in the form of a picture called “Petritsoni Monastery.”

7. It is interesting to know what your creative process is like. What creates your working mood, and how is each item created?

The creative process is quite labor-intensive and full of challenges. It requires precision and attention to the smallest details because even one inaccuracy can ruin several hours of work.

8. What is your source of inspiration?

My inspiration mainly comes from the environment, mood, and the exact moment when the artwork is being created. It can be nature, color, or capturing elements of the past and present and incorporating them into the work.

However, when it comes to customers, of course, I also have to consider their wishes.

9. How much time do you spend on one piece?

It depends on the complexity of the item. Usually, I create them within 4–10 hours, but sometimes I have worked through the entire night.

10. What is the main hallmark of your works?

Quality, refinement, individuality, and most importantly, I try to make every item carry positive energy and be unique and unrepeatable, even in the smallest details.

11. How is an enamel artwork created?

In a pre-selected silver model, I place cloisonné wires in the desired shape, then add the chosen enamel colors, and finally place it in a special furnace heated to 690–750 degrees, where the so-called firing process takes place.

At the very end, the piece is polished.

12. What precautions are necessary during the working process?

Carefulness is essential so that the arranged cloisonné wires do not shift while placing the piece into the furnace, which could cause asymmetry in the design.

Temperature control is also important so the enamel does not burn.

13. This process is enjoyable for an artist, but also tiring and labor-intensive. What do you feel while creating each piece?

Yes, it is very labor-intensive, but while creating them I feel excitement about how the final result will turn out.

After the piece is processed and polished, when it begins to shine with its delicacy and beauty, there is no one happier than me at that moment — especially if it is a custom order and it turns out flawless.

14. What is the level of interest in your works? Where are they sold?

I have Facebook and Instagram pages for NG.Pancho works, where each of my creations is displayed and can be viewed, ordered, and purchased by anyone.

There is interest from both locals and emigrants living abroad.

15. Besides this activity, what else are you involved in?

I am a wife, a mother of three children, and at the same time I work as a cashier-operator at Metroservice+.

16. What gives you the greatest motivation?

Satisfied and grateful customers who appreciate the pieces I create.

17. What are your future plans?

To open a workshop studio where I will also be able to share my experience with others, as well as organize a personal exhibition and participate in exhibitions to introduce NG.Pancho’s refined works to even more people.

— Thank you very much for your time. We wish you great success!