Henson, founded in 2008, is the creation of Andrew Henson and Brent Gold. Together, Mr Henson and Mr Gold create individual pieces that each tell a story through fantasy and drama. Henson collaborated with Song for the Mute in 2011 for their Milieu II collection, creating 5 pieces of jewellery that embodied the label's story and feel for clothing. Each piece was handmade from silver, bronze, antique conch from tibet and linens found in their collection. The pair are also part of the Melbourne Metal Collective, an organisation formed in 2010 that promotes independant Melbourne based jewellery designers by showcasing their work through an artist-run exposure program that involves regular exhibitions, group shows, pop-up stores and organises collaborations with filmmakers and photographers. Their most recent collection 'Beneath the Light' demonstrates a highly conceptual and detailed approach to jewellery that is characteristic of the label. Manuscript spoke to Mr Henson about the collection.
What's the idea behind this collection?
The collection is called 'Beneath the Light' and is based on what lies beneath the surface of the ocean. For us it was also about lifting the aesthetic of the label out of the black and heavy (although there is quite a lot of that still), so there are a lot of finer pieces and gold pieces too.
And you've extended beyond jewellery.
We became really obsessed with stingrays, so the first part of the collection is just that, cast stingray skins. All the silver has this bubbled skin effect on it, which catches the light so well. It also feels great when you wear it. We also used the stingray leather on our first range of wallets and bags too. Everything in the collection is made of sterling silver, even the hand tags on the bags and wallets. It's all handmade as well. It's something that we are very passionate about; the use of precious metals and a hands-on approach. We want people to treasure our stuff, keep it forever, and feel the work we put into it. All the gold pieces are 18ct plated, and the black is oxidised silver.
How would you sum up the Henson label?
The brand has evolved so much over the last 4 years, and I think that has been crucial. We are always focused on making pieces that feel a little dangerous, or aggressive - ugly in a way, but beautiful at the same time. We also try to make things feel heavy, so you know you are wearing something special.
What can we expect next?
It's looking like we are off to Paris in 6 weeks to present the collection during mens fashion week, so thats a huge milestone for us. We have some new pieces in the works as well, still with the under water theme.
Mr Groom wears Henson jewellery & sting ray backpack, Christopher Esber shirt (top).