Jewellery making and art have had an interconnected history, with many fine artists often taking on this medium as a form of self-expression and development of their art practice. I was surprised to learn that even Picasso created pendants to reflect his personal life.
I have a love of jewellery, on those days where I just want to feel a bit brighter I will pop on a nice pair of earrings. I am drawn to pops of colour, statement earrings or something that expresses a bit of fun and individuality. I think this influences my own choices when creating jewellery.
I started making jewellery in 2018, making a collection that sits alongside a series of artworks and evolves with my part practice. They are a snapshot into the work of the time and draw upon the motifs and colour palettes drawn directly from the fine art prints. It’s great to infuse artwork into functional objects and they always attract attention at art and craft fairs. They have gradually become more colourful over the years!
It took a few months to experiment with and perfect the technique, materials, and finishes I now use until I was happy. I wanted the jewellery to be affordable, a way of adding some joy and a pop of colour to the day and complementing a range of outfits and styles. I wanted to make something quirky and unique, and I love getting lovely comments about the jewellery when I wear the pieces.
I chose to use surgical stainless steel as doesn’t tarnish or require as much care to keep as silver, the shrink plastic is lightweight and durable and can hold a high level of detail. I love the matt finish of the material on the dangly earrings which is sealed with matt varnish for extra protection, for added contrast (if you don’t know already I love contrasts) I use a high definition gel on the back with a bright pop of colour, as they are light when they move naturally they reveal the pop of colour which is a feature I adore!
The studs work much better with the glossy finish so are all coated with HD gel to enhance and deepen the colour and give a glossy finish and some depth.
The earrings are often given as gifts, so it is important to me that they are packaged ready to gift. I always include a gift bag to keep the jewellery together and safe, as well as a gift box, ribbon and tissue wrap. I also send directly to a recipient and can add a little note on request.
I adore the process of jewellery making as much as I love wearing it, it feels so good to put on that pop of colour, it makes me smile, I feel more confident, energetic and it allows me to express my identity. I love my colourful collection of costume jewellery from many other makers and I am so pleased to be able to be a part of it by making these collections.
‘lovely earrings, beautifully wrapped and speedy delivery, thank you x’ Nancy
'All gift wrapped and price removed on arrival ready for me to give as a Christmas present!' Jane
'I brought these lovely earrings for my partner after she spotted them on Clares page and she loves them! Great colours and the quality is great! Quick delivery too!' James
'Very interesting and striking 'art earrings', love the colour and texture. Beautiful packaging too! Thank you' Sarah
Beautiful earrings showcasing Clares amazing artwork. The colours really pop and the earrings are well made and go with everything' Abi
