Artist Statement:
Touch is an essential element in all my work. I am fascinated with how individuals interact with objects, manipulating them to soothe and relieve tension.
By positioning my jewellery pieces in different locations on the body I encourage the wearer to investigate and explore the way they interact with the pieces, silently communicating their emotions through simple gestures.
My work appeals to all those who fidget and, with our ever busier lives, they allow us chance for reflection. By tapping into our senses, I have provided jewellery that complements us as people.
By using traditional silversmithing techniques I have created bold lines and sensuous curves. These elements run throughout my visual vocabulary creating a series of individually striking compositions yet keeping them rooted in how their tactile quality is appreciated when worn.
I hope to continue to develop this theme into other locations exploring further how people interact with objects, both on and off the body.
Through the Goldsmith’s Silver Grant I have begun to explore this in a series of napkin rings whose surface I have distorted to reflect the way people hold and handle them. This opens up other avenues for where my practice could take me. In my work I am a silversmith, just my location, so far, has been the body instead of the table.
Education and Training:
2007-2010 De Montfort University, Leicester
BA (Hons) Design Crafts, Specialism: Jewellery & Small Metalwork
2006-2007 Leeds College of Art & Design, Leeds
Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art & Design) Distinction
NCFE Advanced Certificate in Creative Craft Level 3
Key Skills: Communication Level 3
1999-2006 St. Mary’s RC Comprehensive, Menston, Leeds.
4 A levels: A in Art & Design, A in Geography, B in Design & Technology: Product Design, D in General Studies
1 AS Level: B in Biology
11 GCSE’s: 3 A
s in Design & Technology: Graphic Products, Geography, Religious Education, 6 As in Art & Design, Biology, Chemistry, English, Mathematics, Physics, 1 B in English Literature,
1 C in French
Exhibitions:
July 2010 New Designers, Business Design Centre, London
June 2010 Degree Show, De Montfort University, Leicester
March 2009 Array: a group exhibition at The LCD Depot, Leicester
Commissions:
January Series of 5 rings for MA Menswear student Alison Rasch at Central St
2010 Martin
Work Placement:
July-October Kath Libbert Jewellery, Saltaire, West Yorkshire
2009 Helped in all aspects of the running of the show ‘Choice’.
Employment:
December Kath Libbert Jewellery, Saltaire, West Yorkshire
2009
