I am
interested in the dialogue created when recognisable forms
from the history of European fashion and the decorative
arts are combined, changed, and reinterpreted in a modern
material.
For this project I chose to focus on material research and
development, exploring plaster as a primary material in
jewellery. Plaster has long been used in architectural
decoration, but the plaster I use has been chemically
changed with modern products to create an altered material
that is waterproof and suited for use in jewellery
production.I explored
surface enhancement and advanced construction techniques to
further develop the jewellery.I
developed my construction methods based on historical
plasterwork, adapting these techniques to fit my personal
design agenda.
The
images and forms I use come directly from my photos and
drawings, based on objects seen on my visits to museums and
stately homes. My interest in the forms, patterns, and
images from the rich history of European design inspires
this collection of contemporary jewellery.