My path to jewellery has been uninhibited by convention. Earlier this year, I moved my studio to Rye Creative Centre and am relishing spending time surrounded by other brilliant creative people. My desire to create and make in response to a plethora of inspirations demonstrates my artistic approach to my craft. Drawing on fashion, art and the special places I have spent time, my work is expressive and forthright.
The seeds of my first jewellery collection began to germinate during my many visits to Sri Lanka, and in particular Galle Fort – a place rich in history and filled with a diverse mix of artists and creatives.
Spending time at Galle Fort sparked thoughts and ideas about protection and the way civilisations all over the world create physical forts to defend and protect, just as individuals select clothing and accessories that instil confidence and comfort. A desire to create jewellery that reflects those notions was the beginning of ‘Potentia’.
Using those initial pieces as inspiration, I have created an emotive, ready to wear collection. Referencing the stylistic language of those original pieces, this collection intentionally focuses on particular features to create powerful jewels that are wearable day to day. This work is also about the way jewellery changes with wear; the symbiotic relationship of the physical change that takes place in the piece – oxidisation, changes in surface texture – and the change in disposition of the wearer. The pieces are imbued with sentiment. The powerful, sculptural forms project confidence and self assurance.
I will be presenting my new collection for the first time at MADE Brighton, open to the public from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th November 2023.
Image Credits: Heather Rajaratnam .