ARTIST'S SPOTLIGHT - sanaz doost
- eliane de luca peres
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
Sanaz and I connected over four years ago, and it’s been a true joy to witness her work receive the recognition it so deeply deserves. Originally from Iran, she has lived all around the globe before settling in Toronto—a city I hold dear—back in 2021. Her pieces are rooted in her cultural heritage, and her distinctive voice in jewelry is both delicate and powerful, architectural and sinuous. Her work has been shown around the world during jewelry weeks and has earned prestigious awards—testament to the strength and poetry she brings to each piece. I am so happy to share her story and some of her beautiful creations today.
I left my motherland all by myself when I was 19 to study abroad, explore the world, and, in many ways, find myself. Since then, I’ve lived across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and now North America. Along the way, I studied in different countries and universities—each experience shaping how I see the world and how I create. Travel remains an essential part of who I am. I truly can’t imagine life without immersing myself in different cultures, traditions, and art forms—it continues to nourish my curiosity and design philosophy.
My introduction to jewelry began with traditional craftsmanship. I first trained in the Grand Bazaar of Shiraz, learning fundamentals using old-world tools like the low-flame torch and foot-powered bellows. Later, while living in Istanbul for a year, I continued my goldsmithing studies in the city’s historic Grand Bazaar. I then completed my traditional training in Kuala Lumpur, working closely with Southeast Asian masters and refining my technique during the nearly decade I lived in Southeast Asia.
After completing my Master of Philosophy of Art, I moved to Toronto to pursue an Advanced Diploma in Jewelry Arts—a three-year, studio-intensive program that gave me a strong technical foundation and space to develop my own voice as a designer. I also hold a Bachelor of Industrial Design, which continues to inform the structure, balance, and sculptural nature of my work.
My designs blend cultural storytelling with contemporary form. Drawing from Eastern geometry, Silk Road symbolism, and poetic themes of light, transformation, and resilience, I create bold, architectural jewelry that resonates on both personal and universal levels. Blending East to West is who I am, and this dialogue of cultures is reflected in every piece. From the intricate lattice of the Moshabak collection to the symbolic elegance of the Lotus ring, each design is a reflection of heritage reimagined through a modern lens.
I am deeply committed to producing my work locally in Toronto, supporting Canadian artisans—many of whom are women and immigrants like myself. Sustainability and ethical craftsmanship are at the heart of my practice. I prioritize sourcing natural, traceable gemstones and Canadian diamonds, and I strive to minimize waste through thoughtful design and production methods. Supporting local businesses and communities is not only a value but a responsibility I embrace fully.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to grow a brand that honors these principles while expanding internationally. After showcasing at COUTURE in Las Vegas, I look forward to sharing jewelry that bridges cultures, craft, and identity with a global audience.
