Subject Object launches The Existential Dreadlings

Subject Object, the high-craft jewellery studio founded by Canadian artist Bramble Lee Pryde, announces the launch of The Existential Dreadlings, a collection of sculptural fine jewellery that transforms complex modern emotions into wearable guardians. Each hand-carved Dreadling is fashioned in sterling silver or 14k gold, with optional diamond, sapphire or pearl settings. All are cast and finished by hand in Pryde’s studio.

This collection delves into themes of personal and collective existentialism, resilience and the surreal nature of contemporary life. Each piece in the collection serves as a wearable testament to these concepts, pushing the boundaries of traditional jewellery and offering new ways for individuals to express their unique identities and individual crises through wearable art.

“The Dreadlings are companions for the complicated business of existence,” says Pryde. “What began as strange sculptures of my own anxieties grew into guardians others could carry. Each piece is both a jewel and a co-survivor.”

Borne from Pryde’s clay sculptures exploring themes of grief, dread and dark humour, The Existential Dreadlings have evolved into a rich universe of jewellery charms, Illustrated Lore Cards and immersive experiences. Each piece is a finely crafted emblem of the emotional states we carry but rarely name. They are a companion, whispering, “life is strange, but you are not alone.”

THE EXISTENTIAL DREADLINGS UNIVERSE
Rooted in Pryde’s expanding and proprietary universe The Existential Dreadlings, are adornments that anchor meaning, vulnerability and beautifully-lived dread. Born from a series of sculptures based on personal existential anxieties shaped by profound grief and listlessness, the sculptures ranged from dark psychological figures like Hollowyn, the Isolation Emissary, to darkly humorous ones like Cumu, the Doom-Scrolling Absorber.

The sculptures evolved into wearable guardians as a way to help people name and navigate their feelings. The 22 Dreadlings, align with four archetypes – Keepers, Scryers, Wanderers or Wards – each offering a distinct form of guardianship. An interactive quiz on Subject Object’s website helps individuals match with the archetype, while Illustrated Lore Cards deepen the mythology of these existential companions.

FROM CULT FOLLOWING BEGINNINGS TO HIGH-CRAFT

Pryde’s work has appeared in Pretty Little Liars, been featured in outlets including Paper Magazine, Refinery29, FASHION and CBC Life. Subject Object held residency at the Berlin Art Institute in 2023, participated in New York Jewelry Week in 2024 and Pryde earned artist of the year recognition by Maison Simons’ Fabrique 1840 in 2020.

Pryde’s practice is rooted in revolution and reinvention, evolving through predecessor brands, Wolf + Sadie and LE LOU ULA, to today’s sculptural jewellery pieces in precious metals and gemstones. Known for sharp wit, raw perspective and narrative depth, their jewellery transforms personal expression into sculptural pieces that bring deeply personal and raw perspectives to wearable art.