Virgile Bruniau at Karl Mazlo - 2024
Aglaé Desanlis
Since April, Karl Mazlo, founder of the eponymous jewelry workshop, has been hosting Virgile Bruniau, winner of the Prix Savoir-faire en transmission 2024, for a year.
Virgile Bruniau's vocation for jewelry emerged at the age of 16, marked by a fascination for metalwork, refined details and diverse manufacturing techniques. After studying jewelry, which prepared him to join the big houses, Virgile chose to turn to artisanal creation.
"Self-taught learning and travel have enabled me to develop my skills, but I now feel the need to deepen them in a more structured way," explains Virgile.
His journey took him to South America, where he explored techniques such as braiding, filigree and enamel. It was during these travels that he met a friend of Karl Mazlo's, who put them in touch. Karl Mazlo, a graduate of the Ecole Boulle and jeweler since 2017, is known for his ability to replace precious stones with novel materials, such as brick or damask steel.
Karl Mazlo sees this year as an opportunity to enrich Virgile's skills while passing on valuable artisan know-how.
"The aim is to teach him how to manage his status as a jewelry designer through my daily life as an entrepreneur," explains Karl.
The apprenticeship program includes techniques such as engraving, chasing and setting, as well as tool and die making.
For Virgile, the course is also an opportunity to develop his autonomy in the creation of his collections.
"I want to perfect my sense of detail, create precise textures and improve my ability to translate my future customers' dreams into jewelry pieces." he explains.
This year, with Karl, is not limited to the technical aspect; it also includes preparing exhibitions and managing practical aspects such as press kits and photographic shoots.
