Creating chatter

Handwriting forms the starting point for my work. Old papers featuring handwritten messages by unknown characters are sourced, interesting sections are extracted; messages become ambiguous, they are then combined with new metalwork, and contemporary stories emerge.

The fragments of writing often appear as pattern with only hints of the original meaning; these overlapping markings often refer to the decorative nature of jewellery itself, and become intriguing to the viewer. Contrasts of writing styles, scale, character, line, shape and colour are all important features, and combining various characters of handwriting they create new conversations. There is a reference to the things we keep and the preciousness we give them, combined with their throw away nature. 

The ephemera collected include postcards, letters and envelopes, old stamps for added colour, pattern and imagery, linen maps with their words and symbols, and sepia photographs of unknown characters. Original papers are layered with newly created metalwork elements which are influenced by markings in the found writing as well as textures and lines from the current urban environment that they are found in. Silver is often oxidised for a depth of colour and to allow papers to become the highlight. Details of yellow gold tube riveting are used to construct parts of the work to reference an industrial landscape; our new history being created daily. Semi-precious beads are added for texture and colour. 

Contrasts have always been important, the old and new sit together in each piece I create, the reference to the precious and non-precious, decorative elements next to simple areas, the linear and the solid. 

My collection consists of necklaces, bracelets, brooches, earrings and cufflinks, in limited editions and as one-off pieces. The papers are always original and the elements are often gathered in various combinations to give each piece a uniqueness.