I have been very busy during all the lockdowns creating new pieces of jewellery, and I am so excited to be able to finally share this new work with everyone! In my exhibition there will be a wide selection of my unique handmade pendants, earrings, bracelets and rings on display. My pieces are comfortable to wear, with organic forms, interesting textures and often a semi precious stone or beachcombing find to add colour. I will be exhibiting in Wolvercote, alongside the wonderful glass artist Sue Weinstock and the amazing Cherry Jacquet whose metal sculptures will be there for you to enjoy. There are several other artists also exhibiting in Wolvercote, and a walk around our village trail makes for a great morning or afternoon out. We will be taking measures to make our venue covid secure. For this reason, we will be in gazebos in our back garden.
Inspired by the sea and natural forms, I often incorporate pebbles, shells or sea glass in my work - the result of many beachcombing sessions. When selecting semi-precious stones for my pieces I tend to favour blues and greens that evoke the sea. I love organic shapes and experimenting with textures.
I am always interested in learning new techniques, and am continually developing my collections. I use sterling silver which I buy in either wire or sheet, and form pieces using traditional techniques. I aim to use recycled silver where I can, and reuse as much as possible to avoid any waste.
Many of my pieces are one-offs, as I love to play with ideas and designs. I do repeat some popular designs, however each piece is handmade, and therefore a tiny bit different to the last. I am happy to discuss commissions, and it is always a pleasure to create a unique piece for someone.
I have been making my own silver jewellery for about fifteen years, until recently whilst also working as a primary school teacher. I was initially hooked after attending a one day summer school course. Soon after, I joined JASSO (The Jewellery and Silversmithing Society of Oxford), where I continued to develop my technique and learn new skills.
I now make most of my jewellery in my little workshop space that I have slowly been building up in my spare room. I also make some of my work at the JASSO workshop in Abingdon, especially when I need larger tools and machinery that does not fit in my workshop.
I have exhibited during Oxfordshire Artweeks for several years now, both in Wolvercote and recently in Shipton - Upon -Cherwell. Artweeks is always a highlight for me, as I really enjoy the opportunity to chat to people about my work, and am so looking forward to doing this once again. I have enjoyed taking part in other exhibitions as well, such as the Jasso biennial exhibition in the Woodstock Museum, and more recently Longwick Art Show.