Cathérine Rochtus defines herself as a craftsperson rather than an artist, with her work emerging from masterful handcraftsmanship. Over three decades as a goldsmith have endowed her with the skill to translate complex designs into pieces that appear deceptively simple, yet resonate with depth. Influences from painter Toon Haenen taught her to see the beauty in simplicity; art collector Axel Vervoordt revealed the power of harmony; and Norbertine monk Staf Feyaerts introduced her to Zen wisdom, embracing both letting go and a profound respect for nature and humanity. This gratitude—for mentors, family, and life experiences—imbues her work with elegance and enduring spirit.

Each piece of her jewelry is singular, inspired directly by the materials themselves, reflecting the philosophy of Heraclitus: “Everything flows.” For Cathérine, simplicity is a journey back to essence, removing the superfluous to reveal the core of form. Her reverence for materials imparts a unique purity, exemplified by her preference for the warm radiance of antique diamond cuts over the precision of modern styles, infusing each creation with soul and vitality. Her forms are pure yet never rigid, embodying calmness, fluidity, and subtle strength.

Beyond jewelry, in ceramics and photography, Cathérine transforms collected “found objects” into harmonious compositions. Through the dialogue of materials, these pieces resonate together, creating a magical wholeness where the narrative surpasses the sum of its parts. With a keen eye for detail and a dialogue between past and present, she embodies the principle of “less is more,” giving her work a refined simplicity that carries profound depth.