Lost&Find
Lost&Find is a custom miniature and jewelry project that commemorates lost possessions, designed and handcrafted by Hannah Rawe in Brooklyn. Though Hannah continues to collect stories of lost items, Lost&Find now also includes earrings and charms that aren't related to losing things.
“Most things I make are pretty direct - save for the scale shift. Nothing I make is abstract. I make objects, draw people, and even my jewelry is usually a specific thing.”
Josette asked Hannah a few questions
How did you get started?
I've always been a little fascinated with making small things, so jewelry just fell into the picture. I liked the idea of making custom miniatures/jewelry into a service as accessible and part of the urban landscape as having keys made or repairing your favorite shoes. I've always loved those tiny (often locksmiths) shops that are no wider than a door, existing, like a hallway, in between two larger businesses. When I couldn't figure out how to rent a space like that, I started talking to the owner of my childhood watch/battery/hat/glove/umbrella shop and he welcomed me with open arms, as he was interested in bringing different types of vendors into his space.
Lost&Find existed for a year at the front of a Giti Fashion on Flatbush Ave., in Park Slope. I really enjoyed interacting with people, hearing stories of lost items, and getting to know my fellow business owners. The weekly office hours gradually became too much of a time commitment in addition to my full-time job. And although I planned to end the project once I decided to dismantle my Lost&Find booth, I realized how invested I still was in the project and have been trying to keep it going as much as possible.
What inspires you?
Different materials and objects inspire me. People who make things inspire me. Antiquities inspire me. Amazing dancers, cooks and kids inspire me. Beautiful living spaces inspire me
Which work of yours is a good introduction to your style?
In life or with Lost&Find? I grew up making things. The meeting point might be a tiny clay sculpture I made at the age of 8, of myself sitting in a big comfy armchair that I loved and that I no longer have.
How has your work evolved since you started?
I only have so much time in my work week, so I'm not taking on as many commissions as I wish I could! I've also started making non-lost object based jewelry (somehow I find time for that?) and I'm a little confused about whether I can still call it Lost&Find.
Have your priorities changed since you started?
The project has become a little more about the jewelry than I originally anticipated. Part of that is due to the nature of casting.
How do you stay motivated?
I'm not sure, but there's always at least 10 projects I'm excitedly/frantically in the middle of.
Tell us something you wish you had known early on.
That it's ok to do all different kinds of work, because everything informs everything, even if it's not cohesive from an outsider's perspective.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I will be fully involved in making things and drawing without a 9-5 job.
Do you always have a plan?
I always have lists, and sketches, but I don't really consider them plans.
Who/what would you travel to see?
I would love to travel to see old art.
How do you deal with judgement and criticism?
Not always as smoothly as I would like. I try to think about it in a positive light.
