Student

Jewelry Design Student Ashan Haritha Draws Inspiration From Background in Biology

Jewelry Design Student Ashan Haritha draws inspiration from his science background in his jewelry. Available at the FIDM Museum Store, his current collection is made up of geometric shapes that resemble insects. We caught up with him to find out more.

Describe your jewelry designs: My jewelry pieces are best described as geometrical insects. They are colorful and bold pieces that are made for special occasions. All the jewelry are made with natural gemstones and sterling silver, some with gold. I named this collection "Gems of Nature," and it is currently available at the FIDM Museum Store on the Los Angeles campus. 

Tell us a little about yourself: I'm from Sri Lanka; I moved to the U.S. in 2009 and I was a biology student. I met my husband in Palm Springs as I was living there with my parents, and then I moved to L.A. I got married in 2014 and now I live in Hollywood with my husband and two dogs (huskies).

Do you have an internship? I'm looking for a part time job or an internship in jewelry retail because I want to gain some experience.

How did you hear about FIDM and what made you decide to go here? I heard about FIDM through friends. They suggested that I look into it as its the best school for designing. I found the jewelry program and thought "that's it."

How did you choose Jewelry Design? I have always loved jewelry since I was a child. I wanted to play with them, wear them, and be around them as much as I could. I was then, and I am still fascinated by natural gemstones, so I decided to start designing and making jewelry.

What are your career goals and how is FIDM helping you get there? My goal is to start my own business, Haritha Jewelry. I'm planning on launching my first jewelry line and exhibition this fall. FIDM has helped me a lot. During the program I learned everything, from the history of jewelry to metalsmithing and manufacturing, to the business of jewelry. With all of this education and experience, I gained lot of information and knowledge that has given me the confidence to start my own business.

Anything else you’d like to share: FIDM is just not a college, it is a lifestyle, an experience, and a fun place to learn how to be yourself, and how to make the most of your talents.

Categories:  Los Angeles Campus International Student Transfer Student