About Materials & Techniques I like to work mainly in silver and gold, keeping my pieces relatively simple. Travel has always been an important source of inspiration and there is nothing I love more than scouring markets, fairs and antique shops for interesting stones, shells, and other objects to incorporate into my work. I continue to be fascinated by contrasting the exotic colours, shapes and textures of the pieces I find, with the pure simplicity of silver and gold. Many of my new ideas stem from my closeness to the materials I use. I find that varying my methods and techniques results in opening the door to a design or approach that I had not previously considered. Although most of my collections are handmade, some pieces incorporate more complex techniques such as casting or electroplating. I want my work to reflect both the classic and the contemporary by using traditional metal work coupled with more innovative modern processes. I think jewellery is about feeling special. I want my work to make people feel confident and to add that something extra. I'd like each piece to become treasured, not just for the way it looks, but for the way it makes you feel. At one level my pieces are aesthetic objects. They do not always have to be worn but can be viewed as sculptures that stand-alone. Having grown up in the midst of an architectural practice, many of my influences come from buildings and cityscapes. My Skyscraper Rings are a good example. These were inspired by the overwhelming size and beauty of the Manhattan skyline, which dwarfs the people below it while at the same time bathing the city in reflected light. While the aesthetic value of my pieces is important, this does not mean they cannot be fun. One of the key themes in my work has always been interaction. I want my pieces to continue to develop once they leave my workshop. I want people to play with them; to personalise them; to have fun with them. Many of my pieces can be altered, added to and tinkered with. They evolve with the people who own them, changing to complement every occasion or outfit. < Back to "About Me" page