Objects of Desire

The Wick Culture - Koi Carp Ring, Castro Smith

Jewellery Koi Carp Ring, Castro Smith

The art of jewellery. With a background in painting and printmaking, Castro Smith’s ring designs are renowned for their illustrative style. Inspired by history, myths and biology, his creations capture the fantasy of creatures and story-telling – such as the Koi Carp in this ring. A Japanese symbol of longevity and prosperity – the only fish able to conquer the waterfalls of the Yellow River – a gift of Koi is believed to grant the receiver strength. Smith’s ‘seal engraving’ method goes back to ancient times and fuses Japanese and Western techniques, producing a cross-fertilisation of styles and processes – beautifully encapsulated within this bespoke contemporary piece.


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The Wick Culture - Gallery view of the Summer Exhibition 2026, at the Royal Academy of Arts, London, 16 June - 23 August 2026, showing 'The Witch' and 'The Goddess' by Paulina Olowska. Photo: © Royal Academy of Arts, London / David Parry
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The Wick Culture - Photo: girlgangshop
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The Wick Culture - Jewellery Koi Carp Ring, Castro Smith
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The Wick Culture - Jewellery Koi Carp Ring, Castro Smith
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The Wick Culture - Jewellery Koi Carp Ring, Castro Smith
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