Wearable plants.

Pot Plant Ring. 2009. 925, soil, rock rose.

 I made this piece at the end of  3rd yr. The concept - a conscious piece of jewellery. To successfully wear this ring you would have to remain aware(hand flat,palm facing down) at all times. If you forgot and moved  your hand (the way we do in everyday life)-the soil and plant would fall out. A practice in conscious awareness.

I came across a British jeweller and full time lecturer-  Jo Pond. This piece below "Windmill neckpiece" is part of her narrative collection. I haven't been able to find any writing on what this piece is about, but I love the concept of a hanging flower basket. It gave me the idea of turning a pot plant into a neck-piece. If i had to explain the feeling of this piece in one word id use "delicate" , but that is not my aim at all when i manufacture. I relate to this piece only as an idea. The jewellery i make is often quite chunky. 

Jo Pond, "windmill neckpiece".

My flower pot necklace in progress.Experimenting with a simple way to impressionize the flower, possibly through the use of colour.

Narrative Jewellery...

Narrative jewellery has existed alongside ancient civilizations throughout history. It stems from the humans want/urge to communicate, either by sending a message or by telling a story. Contemporary narrative jewellery came about with the pop art movement. Which opened jewellers up to creating jewellery that comments and communicates, with either the wearer, the viewer or both. The notion of narrative jewellery suggests a variety of aspects. Often through symbolism and imagery commenting on political, cultural, spiritual or social matters, and possibly even personal issues, memories, beliefs or opinions.

A Khamsa is a good example of a  image, often made into a jewel, used as a sign of protection throughout history. 

A Penny for your Thoughts. Fred Woell. 1991. Silver , brass, penny. Brooch
This Brooch comments on a politcal status, whilst making a joke of it. 

Iv come across an American metal smith and jeweller Elizabeth Goluch. She creates one of a kind detailed and decorative insects. Her work reflects the intricacy,complexity and order in nature and evokes elements of insect life and the environment. This demonstrates and shares an appreciation for insect life. Often the pieces contain a beautiful little treasure. Goluch works in gold,silver enamel and gemstones.

B-tech intentions

This year i aim to use the concept of my jewellery to create an awareness around my topic, "sustainability" (expressing my concern), using my jewellery as a tool to convey this (narrative) message.

I intend (somehow) manufacturing jewellery that conveys the vulnerability/fragililty of nature. Whilst doing this i would like to investigate---- then incorporate where possible , sustainable ways to make jewellery more environmentally friendly.

I also plan to do more research on indigenous trees/plants and using these as reference to illustrate both the positive and the negative aspect of sustainability(fauna and flora as indicators). I also intend on finding and looking into jewellers and artist who use the environment as subject matter(in any meaningful way, not necessarily visual).eg Hamish Cambell , Sharon Church.