Paul Derrez trained as a goldsmith, but has focused since 2000 on silversmithing.
In 1976 he opened Galerie Ra in Amsterdam, where he remains a director. His jewellery has gone through several stages: the geometrical and playful (Wisselring, 1973); the theatrical and sculptural (Pleated Collar, 1982 and Pebble-necklace, 1985).
In 1994 he changed direction with the collection Risky Business: an ironic take on violence and sexuality. In Tits and Pieces, The Happy Family and Spooky Spoons in 2001, he explored the sentiment of family. Spoons began his silversmithing career, followed by a collection of rattles and larger silverware cups, jugs and bowls. His style is simple, with a clever, cheeky twist.