My work is inspired by the theme of Vanitas, which John B. Ravenal describes as “the traditional meditation on life’s fleeting nature” . Skulls, wilting flowers, fruit and jewels were commonly depicted in seventeenth century Dutch still-life paintings to symbolize the vanity of earthly pleasures and possessions, and the transience Read More...

My work is inspired by the theme of Vanitas, which John B. Ravenal describes as “the traditional meditation on life’s fleeting nature” . Skulls, wilting flowers, fruit and jewels were commonly depicted in seventeenth century Dutch still-life paintings to symbolize the vanity of earthly pleasures and possessions, and the transience of life. The images within a Vanitas often alluded to one of the five senses.

My research into Vanitas still-life paintings has led me to explore the idea of composition and the placement of objects. By merging several different symbolic images into one piece, my jewellery becomes a composition in its own right.

My collection is summarized in the “Allegory of Mortal Pleasures” series. In each piece the symbolized sense is overshadowed by the imminence of death, represented by a skull. In the “Taste” and “Scent” pieces, processions of insects link the sensory objects to their inevitable decay.

Senses are often represented in an exclusively visual form, with the exception of “Touch” where the flocked strawberries add a physical sensation to the piece.

I craft my jewellery using a variety of techniques like repousse and chasing, photo etching, casting and piercing, switching confidently between 2D and 3D construction.

Through the use of contrasts and combinations of techniques and imagery I am creating a narrative between the wearer and the viewer.

Education & Qualifications
2008-2010
MDes 3D Materials Practice,
University of Brighton
2006-2008
Foundation Degree in Applied Art and Design, Bournemouth University
2004-2005
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design,
The Arts University College Bournemouth

Exhibitions
2010
New Designers, Business Design Centre, London.
MDes Degree Show, University of Brighton.
2009
BA Degree Show (Work in Progress), University of Brighton.
2008
Foundation Degree Show, The Study Gallery, Bournemouth and Poole College.
Spring Exhibition, Bournemouth University.

Work Experience
2008
The Julian Stephens Gallery, Brighton
Jewellery Production and Admin Assistant

Skills
A comprehensive range of metal and plastic jewellery making skills including repousse and chasing, photo-etching, piercing, soldering, casting, mould-making, pressing, fold-forming, stone setting, and finishing.