MA Portfolio

"Decorative Art"

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.