Originality - Creativity

Part-time model, once-upon-a-time fashion designer, Jacob Johnson, is a man of many talents. His latest venture sees him as founder, director and lead designer of uber cool jewellery brand, A Midnight Vendetta.

Inspired by the likes of pro-wrestler Jeff Hardy and musicians including Alice Cooper and Steven Tyler, Jacob says a lot of his creativity comes down to his upbringing and parents.

“Growing up my parents were metalheads, so I was into that whole music scene and also heavy rock/punk bands,” explains Jacob.

“Dad used to ride Harley's around in his leather jackets and had that whole vibe going on so that naturally inspired me to be like that as a kid. As I grew up I maintained this anti-world mentality and strayed away from whatever I thought was mainstream or generic, so I drew a lot of inspiration from the underground scene. Honestly I just like stuff I find different and people who aren't afraid to stand out in their own way inspire me.”

Jacob uses the highest quality recycled stainless steel for his designs and delicately hand-finishes his jewellery to create durable, ethically crafted pieces. Every unique design begins with a vision and can take up to a year to produce, from concept to the end product.

From this week, the AGWA Design Store welcomes A Midnight Vendetta instore on display and online.

How did A Midnight Vendetta get started?

It all started during Covid, I had just come off a huge year travelling through modelling and working various different fashion related jobs. I knew I wanted to start my own brand and/or business and wasn't too sure where to start. I was thinking to do clothing first, but that was too overdone. After working for many brands and fashion households, I ended up diving into jewellery because I felt the bar for jewellery is set very low as far as standards, creativity and quality. I also just struggled to find pieces I wanted that were worth getting. So I spent about a year learning what I had to and taking baby steps in that direction.

Who wears your jewellery?

I'd say people who don't want to wear the same stuff as everybody else. Basic is boring. Honestly I've had people from all walks of life wear my jewellery. Some people get caught up thinking that the brand aesthetic is fit for a certain crowd, which I get because I've crafted that to represent me and my style. However as far as my full catalogue goes, the designs range from light and dainty pieces up to your heavier statement pieces, so I really believe that anybody can rock at least one of my designs.

What are your favourite metals/gems to work with?

All of my pieces are recycled stainless steel. In my opinion it is the best jewellery material because it maintains itself regardless of where or how often you wear it. It's hypoallergenic, non-tarnish and requires no maintenance. It's also extremely durable and holds a nice glistening shine to it. Plus ethical as stainless steel is one of the world's most recycled materials. The list just goes on.

Jacob Johnson models his A Midnight Vendetta jewellery.

How do you feel about being stocked in the Design Store?

It's my privilege - I'm very happy that my pieces are being stocked there. They showcase some amazing local talent and I love everything they have going on. Perth is not an easy place to shop so I fully support this store, its also in the best location and is just cool to me because I've been going to the art gallery since I was a kid.

What is your dream for the Midnight Vendetta brand?

I just want to takeover. Nothing more to it. I've already crushed a lot of goals since beginning and won't be stopping. I would love to open my own store eventually and dress it up real interesting. At the moment my dream is for the brand to be seen everywhere.