S E T H  P A P A C

BREEZE BLOCK

Breeze block refers to modular, decorative cement blocks that were popular in mid-century modern architecture. They were widely used to create architectural screens at the front of residential structures—allowing for privacy but not inhibiting air flow into interior spaces. The decorative aspect of these screens, as well as the way in which they frame a partial view into a private space, act to highlight and increase speculation of the interior. This duality and contradiction in purpose and function is very similar to how jewelry operates. Jewelry, in its intimate scale, has the concentrated capacity to protect a wearer, enhance confidence, hold a memory, celebrate love, commemorate life, beautify the body and invite connection. Jewelry is essential.