Xinyi Chen (England) repurposes discarded electronic components into jewelry she affectionately calls “Artificial Intelligems.” Inspired by childhood memories of her mother’s work as a computer practitioner, Chen is drawn to the intricate shapes, colors, and textures of electronic waste. Her work explores the narratives embedded in these digital remnants, questioning what they reveal about contemporary society and the future.
Merging traditional metalsmithing with digital fabrication, Chen sets e-waste components—including diodes and vintage capacitors—into silver mounts. Sourcing materials primarily from the WEEE Recycling Centre, her research at Central Saint Martins examined the intersection of technology and craft. By transforming these discarded elements, she challenges conventional notions of fine jewelry, prompting reflection on material value and sustainability. Through her work, Chen encourages a renewed appreciation for the physical world, offering a tangible counterpoint to the ephemeral nature of digital culture.
